December 10, 2004

School Scene

Westmont student to participate in Presidential Inauguration

Phoenix Paz, a student at Westmont High School, has been accepted into the People to People Presidential Inauguration, an educational program in Washington, D.C. held Jan. 19-23. Paz will join a select group of students, as the nation ushers in a new four-year presidential term. Planned activities include the official swearing in of the president and vice-president, the inaugural address, the parade and a celebratory ball.

Paz was nominated and accepted for the exclusive honor based on previous participation with People to People programs. As part of the Presidential Inauguration, Paz will explore America’s presidential heritage by visiting such places as Mount Vernon, the estate and gardens of George Washington; Monticello, the home and plantation of Thomas Jefferson; and Ford’s Theatre, where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated.

Rolling Hills students receive Optimist Awards

Two Rolling Hills Middle School students were recently honored by Optimist International during their Youth Appreciation Recognition Evening. Eighth graders Kerrilee Fazzino and Matthew Thomas were selected by their teachers to receive the service awards due to their exceptional efforts at community service.

Marshall Lane only school in county nominated for
National Blue Ribbon Award

Campbell Elementary School District’s Marshall Lane Elementary School was the only school in Santa Clara County to earn California State’s nomination for national recognition in the 2004005 No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon Schools Program. In total California nominated 35 public schools for the award.

The NCLB-Blue Ribbon program allows states to nominate schools that show dramatic growth and high achievement. The winning schools are considered to be national models of excellence.

“It is a tremendous honor to be nominated,” said District Superintendent Johanna VanderMolen. “The criteria that schools must meet are incredibly tough, and we’re proud of Marshall Lane’s students, staff and families for earning the nomination.”

The Blue Ribbon Schools will be announced in September 2005, and will be honored at a ceremony in Washington, D.C.