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To help MDUSD parents and caregivers understand how they and the District can work together with local police departments to keep students safe, a small group of parents is organizing Gun and Campus Safety events in communities including Walnut Creek, Concord and Pleasant Hill. The first event was held Aug. 27th at Northgate HS in partnership with the city of Walnut Creek. Mayor Loella Haskew and Police Chief Jamie Knox stressed the importance of safe gun storage in homes to prevent accidental shootings. Knox and MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark also explained how the police department and school district train staff to respond to potential shootings or other school emergencies. And Dr. Clark reminded parents of the "Say Something" anonymous reporting system implemented in the District, which allows people to alert authorities about potential threats.  Northgate HS Social Work Specialist Merritt Rollins discussed the school's Wellness Center, which provides a safe space where students can relax from stress, play games, pet her dog, and discuss anxieties or other issues with Rollins or a Social Work intern. "We offer crisis support and intervention," Rollins said, noting that she and others in the school and District can refer students to outside agencies for support or mental health treatment, if necessary. "I want everyone to feel like there's someone who wants to listen to them and hear what they have to say. And I do." Northgate HS Principal Kelly Cooper said Northgate HS has implemented "phone spas" on campus, meaning students are required to turn their phones off and place them in a designated "spa" location in each classroom so they will not be distracted during class. Some teachers allow students to charge their phones in the "spa." She said the school piloted the spas last year and teachers reported student engagement increased as a result. Like Rollins, Cooper said all staff at the school focus on making strong connections with students, "making sure they feel welcome, included and heard," to ensure that every student has a trusted adult on campus they can talk to. She said the "Link Crew" connects freshmen with juniors and seniors to help build a sense of community. And she has her own anonymous reporting system that goes straight to her, which students have already used this year to report concerns.  The panel also answered several questions from the audience about training, suspensions and expulsions, campus safety plans and other issues. Dr. Clark also discussed the Yondr cell phone pouches being used at Olympic HS, Prospect HS, Mt. Diablo HS and Ygnacio Valley HS, saying they are not required districtwide yet, but a policy could be considered next year at more schools if they are interested. He said students were hesitant at first, but many say the pouch - in which cell phones are locked during the school day - is effective in keeping them focused on school instead of on cell phone distractions, and they like it. Click here to see a Campus Safety Resources flyer distributed after the event.

Panel members (l-r) Walnut Creek Mayor Loella Haskew, Walnut Creek Police Chief Jamie Knox, Northgate HS Social Work Specialist Merritt Rollins, Northgate HS Principal Kelly Cooper and MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark speak about gun and campus safety at Northgate HS on Aug. 27.

MDUSD sends a big cheer of congratulations to Mt. Diablo HS Cheer Team Coach Heather Hollis, who has been named the California Varsity Cheer Coach of the Year by cheer athletic apparel company Nfinity, which based the award on an anonymous nomination in its annual nationwide contest and a follow-up interview with Hollis. "These leaders have inspired, motivated, and elevated their teams to greatness, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate their incredible achievements," Nfinity said, when it announced winners including Hollis and others from around the country earlier this month. "Your passion, dedication, and impact on the cheerleading world are truly unmatched. We are so proud of each of you for the hard work and heart you bring to the sport!"

The company would not reveal who nominated Hollis or what the nomination said. But Nfinity Sales Director Erin Connors, who interviewed Hollis based on the nomination, said Hollis was a great fit for the award. "For the longest time, coaches were like the unsung heroes," Connors said. "We were looking for somebody that's made an impact, not just won a competition. It has nothing to do with competitions. It has to do with making changes, helping kids, and being a good influence."

Hollis' cheer team members and volunteer Assistant Coach Kelly Bartlett, who is also the school's Head Softball Coach, said Hollis definitely deserves the award for her tireless work to elevate the team's status at the school since she arrived last year, while nurturing team members like a second Mom. She teaches team members life lessons - such as the importance of doing their homework, setting goals and giving back to the community - while also restructuring the way they practice by starting with the basics to avoid injuries, then working to build on a strong foundation. 

"She's very understanding," said Damariz Ramirez, a senior who is one of two Captains of the team. "She's done a lot for us." Before Hollis arrived, the team had no designated room on campus to practice in. Now, they practice in a room in the Girls Gym and feel more included in schoolwide activities, Damariz said, adding, "I'm so thankful for her." Senior Denise Romero, who has been on the team since she was a freshman, said Hollis is warm and approachable. "You can talk to her when you need help with something and she will listen to you and she gives us feedback even if it's outside of class or in cheer. She's very caring." Nyomi Cedeno, who joined the team as a senior in June, said Hollis was very welcoming and easy to talk to. The girls also said Hollis stresses community service, such as working on school supply donation drives and volunteering at KidFest. In addition, Hollis helps them look at potential colleges, said Damariz, who wants to study fashion design at an out-of-state college. Denise wants to study business focusing on the retail industry and Nyomi wants to study business, cosmetology and real estate. 

As a 2007 MDHS grad and former cheerleader herself, Hollis said she wants her team members to feel empowered to complete college or an apprenticeship program. "I don't want them to think: 'I can't because I came from here' or 'I can't afford it,'" Hollis said, noting that the 11 team members live in Bay Point or Concord and many can't afford expensive gear. They fundraise to buy uniforms and pay for bus transportation. And sometimes, Hollis pays out of her own pocket for extras like makeup and bows. "I don't mind," she said, "because I want to grow the program. I lived in a homeless shelter when I went here and my captain paid for everything. I tell the girls, 'We always give more than we take, which can also mean a smile or a compliment." Hollis also tells the girls, "You can make an impact on someone." She stresses working as a team, developing leadership skills, and having a positive attitude. "I treat them the way I would want someone to treat my own daughter," Hollis said. "I'm really big on them being advocates for themselves." Hollis was especially proud of the team's enthusiasm and hard work when they attended a three-day Cheer Camp at St. Mary's College of Moraga last month and earned several awards and recognitions, including "most improved" out of 22 teams, which she called "the highlight." Because it was too expensive to stay overnight at the camp, team members' parents dropped them off every morning at 6 a.m. and picked them up at 9 p.m., Hollis said.

Bartlett, who has assisted Hollis since last year, was on the MDHS cheer team with Hollis, graduated with her and remains one of her best friends. "She does everything from her heart," Bartlett said. "She just pours her all into the program and the girls." They both have a "big vision for the program" that includes a cheer team, flag team and dance team, Bartlett said. When the flag team coach left this year, Hollis and Barlett took on the 14-member team in addition to cheer, even though they are still learning about flag themselves. A dance team has yet to be formed, but Hollis and Bartlett said they want the school to have the same types of spirit squads it had when they were MDHS students. Bartlett said she's happy that Hollis has earned the Coach of the Year award, which brings a lot of attention to Hollis, Mt. Diablo HS, and their cheer program.

The team already knows 21 cheers and four chants, and plans to work on stunts as they develop their skills, with six new members this year. Planning is underway for its first fundraiser in September, with details to follow on Instagram. Anyone wishing to donate to the program can send a check to the school in care of the cheer team or contact Hollis at hhollis8831@gmail.com.
 
The teams Instagram posts show their Summer Camp experience and stunt routine last year. And this reel highlights Hollis' coaching and the team's practice for the school's Friday Night Football game at 7 p.m. at Deer Valley HS in Antioch. 

 

 

This week's MDUSD Friday Letter spotlights:

• Mt. Diablo High School’s Heather Hollis, who has been named the CA Varsity Cheer Coach of the Year by Nfinity,
• a Gun and Campus Safety event held at Northgate High School,
• the 3rd Annual Black Family Night Extravaganza,
• the Bridge Program’s Friends Cafe at the Loma Vista Adult Education Center,
• School and Staff social media highlights
• and more!

You can read it here.

 

On Aug. 21st, MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark sent the following update to District parents and staff:

Dear Parents, Families, Staff and Community Members,

I am thrilled to share some exciting updates on the progress of the Measure J Bond project and other funded construction projects that have taken place and are scheduled to continue throughout our District. This summer, our dedicated staff and contractors have been hard at work, focusing on modernizing our schools and creating better learning environments for our students and staff. From the significant upgrades at three of our elementary schools to the district wide technology and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) improvements, these projects represent our ongoing commitment to providing a top-tier educational experience for every student in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District.

Modernization of Meadow Homes, Mt. Diablo, and Rio Vista Elementary Schools

The modernization efforts at Meadow Homes, Mt. Diablo, and Rio Vista Elementary Schools include substantial upgrades such as new flooring, walls, ceilings, doors, dual-pane windows, classroom furniture, HVAC systems, lighting, clocks, and restrooms. Importantly, these upgrades also incorporate Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility improvements where necessary. Additionally, restrooms that were previously converted into storage spaces may be returned to their original function in Phase II of the project.

The Multi Use Rooms at Rio Vista and Mt. Diablo Elementary received HVAC. The Meadow Homes Multi Use Room will receive HVAC during Phase II.

Rio Vista Elementary received additional upgrades with the construction of two new Transitional Kindergarten classrooms and two new Special Day Class classrooms.

The modernization work is being executed in phases:

• Phase I: Several classrooms, offices, and restrooms were completed during Summer 2024. However, due to unforeseen delays, some work is still ongoing. This includes technology infrastructure upgrades, exterior door replacements, HVAC controls, window coverings, sinks, cabinets, countertops, and main office improvements at Mt. Diablo and Rio Vista Elementary Schools.

• Phase II: This will begin in early 2025, with work scheduled during school breaks. The project is expected to be fully completed by the end of Summer 2025.

Technology Infrastructure Upgrades

Silverwood Elementary School has been outfitted with new security cameras, Wi-Fi infrastructure, clocks, bells, and a new phone system. This project serves as a pilot program, with plans to replicate it across the district. The next phase of technology infrastructure improvements is slated for Northgate High School, Dent Center, Willow Creek Center, other Central Services offices, and Loma Vista Adult Education Center.

Wren Avenue Elementary is currently in the Design phase for similar upgrades.

Districtwide HVAC Controls and Maintenance, and HVAC Replacement Projects

We are currently 18 months into a two-year project to upgrade the HVAC systems across the district. New thermostats and controls are expected to be substantially completed by December 2024. Out of 2,000 HVAC units scheduled for replacement, 249 were targeted for the summer, with 18 remaining to be installed during the Fall Break in October 2024.

Other Upcoming Construction Projects (Non-Measure J)

• College Park High School Field Replacement: Completed Summer 2024. 

• Mt. Diablo High School Synthetic Track and Field Replacement: Scheduled for Fall 2024. During this period, home football games will be held at Riverview Middle School. 

• Middle School Kitchen/Multi-Use Room Modernization:

  • Valley View Middle School's kitchen and multi-use room were completed over the summer.

  • El Dorado Middle School’s construction is anticipated to begin in Fall/Winter 2024.

• Central Services Camera and Lighting Upgrades: These upgrades are scheduled for Fall/Winter 2024. Camera upgrades are part of the broader technology infrastructure improvements mentioned above. LED lighting has already been installed at schools and other district offices.

• Pleasant Hill Middle School Pool Replacement: The contract has been signed, but the project schedule is still to be determined.

Future Planning

Given the age and condition of MDUSD’s facilities, ongoing upgrades are necessary. We anticipate that Measure J funds will be fully expended by late 2025. Looking ahead, we are considering pursuing a new facilities bond to continue our efforts to enhance our schools. Before moving forward, we will update and prioritize our Facilities Master Plan, including a focus on athletics and visual and performing arts facilities.

Thank you for your ongoing support and investment in the 29,000 wonderful students of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District. It is because of your trust and partnership that we can continue to make these vital improvements that will benefit our students and community for years to come.

Thank you,

Dr. Adam Clark
Superintendent 

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When Governor Newsom sent a letter to every school District in the state last week encouraging them to limit cell phone use in schools, reporters starting calling MDUSD to find out about new Yondr cell phone pouches being used at Mt. Diablo HS and Ygnacio Valley HS in Concord this year, after they were successfully piloted at Olympic HS and Prospect HS last year.

Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark spoke about the Yondr bags during his report to the School Board on Wednesday, saying the District is piloting the pouches at two new schools this year so that students can have the best experiences possible on the campuses. "If our students spend that time with their faces buried in their phones – texting, online, on TikTok, or whatever – then they re going to miss out on friendships, on the extracurricular activities, and more importantly, on the instruction that’s taking place in their classrooms," he said. "Four or five days into it, it's getting positive results." He said Mt. Diablo HS students are reportedly jumping rope at lunchtime and teachers say their students are more engaged than they were before. 

Dr. Clark explained that each student receives a Yondr pouch - just like they receive textbooks - and they are required to turn their phones off and put them into the pouch and lock it via a magnetic system. At the end of the day, it is unlocked. Many parents think the program is great, while some are concerned about safety, he said, adding that the pouches could be unlocked in the event of an on-campus emergency.

If the pilots are successful, Dr. Clark said Yondr pouches could be introduced at College Park, Concord and Northgate high schools next year, but administrators would have to start having conversations with staff, students and parents in January or February to ensure a smooth transition. If that happens, the Board could consider implementing a Districtwide policy regarding limiting cell phone use next year, he said. 

Board Member Cherise Khaund said she noticed that Olympic HS seemed more peaceful after implementing the Yondr pouches when she visited that campus last year. "The principal seems to know every single student's name and people are really interacting, so I’m really looking forward to going out to Mt. Diablo HS and Ygnacio Valley HS and seeing how those interactions can happen now," she said, adding that adults, too, miss out on social interactions when they spend time in public on their cell phones. "Being able to change that culture and allow people to interact, I think, is going to be a really special opportunity."

Social Work Specialists posted photos on Instagram (below), showing students playing games and chatting with each other, with the caption: "No phone, no problem! Wellness Centers at Olympic, Mt. Diablo, and Ygnacio Valley high schools have provided fun lunchtime activities where students are building community and making memories. Who said high school kids don’t love to PLAY?!"

Students at Wellness Centers play games and interact with each other during lunch. 

MDUSD is making its Development Fee Implementation Study and the District's Budget and Enrollment reports available for public review starting August 16, 2024 at the MDUSD District Office, 1936 Carlotta Drive in Concord.

These documents will be available for public inspection during regular business hours (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) weekdays until the Governing Board approves them. The District anticipates that these items will appear on the August 28, 2024 Board Agenda. However, that agenda will not be finalized until 5 p.m. Friday, August 23. After that time, the documents may also be posted with the agenda here.  

 

This week's MDUSD Friday Letter spotlights:

• Yondr cell phone pouches at Mt. Diablo High School, Ygnacio Valley High School, Olympic High, and Prospect High;
• District news including our new student Board member is sworn in and the Board ratifies summer administrative appointments, Fentanyl Awareness Day on August 21, and the first day of school,
• School news including Concord High School’s senior chalk art and BBQ, and social media highlights from Valhalla, Sun Terrace, Bel Air and Mountain View elementary schools; Pine Hollow, El Dorado and Sequoia middle schools; and Concord, Olympic, and Northgate high schools and the College Now program at DVC;
• Social Media Staff highlights featuring our dedicated staff at Bel Air Elementary, Olympic & Concord high schools & Holbrook Language Academy;
• alumni news featuring Amit Elor, an Olympic Gold Medalist in women’s wrestling, who attended College Park High School and graduated from MDUSD's Horizons Independent Study Program;
• and more!

You can read it here.

This post was updated Aug. 15, 2024.

MDUSD is pleased to announce the following new administrative appointments for the 2024-25 school year. More information about Board-approved administrators is available by clicking on their names below.

District Administrators

• Chief of Educational Services: Samantha Allen
• Executive Director of Fiscal Services: Gustavo Aguilera
• Executive Director of Human Resources and Risk Management: Ryan Sheehy
• Director of College and Career Readiness: Heather Fontanilla
• Director of Elementary Support: Erin DeMartini
• Director of Multilingual Education: Kathryn Fireman
• Director of Secondary Support: Ruth Steele
• Director of Student Services: Marji Calbeck
• Assistant Director of Multilingual Education: Chitra Bhardwaj
• Assistant Director of Partnerships and Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports: Celeste Kitts
• Elementary School Support Administrator: Lauren Ashton
• Family Involvement and Community Engagement Program Coordinator, African American Student Achievement: Lamont Francies
• Instructional Program Specialist, Differentiated Support: Diane Fitzpatrick
• Program Administrator, SEEC: Carrie Buchek
• Program Specialist, Counseling & Restorative Practices: Pedro Arroyo
• Social Work Specialist: Vanessa Castillo
• Civil Rights Officer and Title IX Coordinator: Kristy Avila

School Administrators

• Principal at College Park High School: Levirt Griffin
• Principal at Ygnacio Valley High School: Peter Crutchfield
• Principal at Ayers Elementary School: Olivia Wong
• Principal at Bancroft Elementary: Linda Flynn
• Principal at Delta View Elementary: Joseph Bruno
• Principal at Fair Oaks Elementary: Amy Monaghan
• Principal at Shore Acres Elementary: Lisamarie Gascot Reyes*
• Principal at Walnut Acres Elementary School: Martha Thomas
• Principal at Wren Avenue Elementary School: Tiffany Jones**
• Vice Principal, Loma Vista Adult Education: Andrew Foerder
• Vice Principals at College Park High School: Stephanie Marple and Neal Finch
• Vice Principal at Concord High School: Kevin Honey
• Vice Principal at Prospect High School: Charles Harrington
• Vice Principals at Ygnacio Valley High School: Rimy Dhillon and Carissa Weintraub
• Vice Principals at Oak Grove Middle School: Hsaio-Fen Leopold and Megan O'Malley
• Vice Principals at Riverview Middle School: Herbert Gomez and Ronald Richardson
• Vice Principals at Sequoia Middle School: Carolyn Hull and Ifeyinwa Obi
• Vice Principal at Valley View Middle School: Daniel Buhler
• Vice Principal and Program Specialist for Site-based Categorical Programs at Bel Air Elementary School: Edmund Perryman
• Vice Principal at Meadow Homes Elementary: Ruby Ortega
• Vice Principal at Mt. Diablo Elementary School: Miranda Romo
• Vice Principal at Shore Acres Elementary School: Angelica Zanipatin
• Program Specialist at Oak Grove Middle School: Sheilan Kazzaz

In addition, the Board extended the contracts of Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark and Chief Business Officer Adrian Vargas through June 30, 2027. The Board also granted Superintendent Clark the authority to make additional administrative appointments over the summer, which were ratified by the Board on August 14th. 

*Lisamarie Gascot Reyes was originally appointed Principal for 2024-25 at Wren Avenue Elementary on June 26, but was reassigned to Shore Acres after Principal Miguel Rodriguez resigned in July.

**Tiffany Jones was originally appointed Vice Principal for 2024-25 at Shore Acres Elementary in April, but was reassigned as Principal at Wren Avenue Elementary effective July 29.