SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

CLUSTER FACTS

ClairemontCrawfordHenryHoover
KearnyLa JollaLincolnMadison

Mira MesaMission BayMorsePoint Loma

San DiegoScrippsSerraUniversity City

CLUSTER LEADERS CONFERENCE

MAY 31, 2011

Cluster Leaders/Officers:
Julee Jenkins, 858.354.2359, julee.jenkins@gmail.com

Cluster Meeting Information:

Third Thursday of each month
5:30–7 p.m.
Marston Middle School Library, 3799 Clairemont Dr., San Diego, CA 92117

Cluster Schools/Principals:
School Principal
Alcott Elementary Michelle Riley
Bay Park Elementary Leslie Barnes
Cadman Elementary Elizabeth Ballard
Holmes Elementary Evvalenora (Evva) Cross
Toler Elementary Peggy Lewis
Longfellow K–8 Cynthia Arce
Marston Middle Dr. Elizabeth (Betsy) Cook
Clairemont High Lenora Smith

Cluster Members Include:

Community Members 11 Teachers 10
Parents 85 Students 3
Administrators 8 Support Staff 1

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 3% White 37%
Asian 2% English Learners 22%
Hispanic 50% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 54%
Pacific Islander 0% Special Education 17%

Cluster Mission Statement:

We are a decision-making body comprised of school site administrators, district, parent, and community
representatives. We will work to improve Clairemont campus facilities and security, to ensure safe and well-
maintained campuses, increase school attendance and enrollment by creating schools that Clairemont families are
proud to attend. We aim to increase student achievement by fostering high-performing schools that meet the needs
of all children by increasing parent involvement and creating community-wide events that promote and support our
neighborhood schools.
Cluster Goals/Objectives:
To enhance communication between the schools, market our schools to encourage families to attend their
neighborhood schools, provide education and support to the community, develop a foundation to assist with financial
needs, development relationships with local businesses.

Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

Aug
2010 Established cluster group, met with Area Superintendent to discuss cluster focus and direction.
Met with Area Superintendent to establish cluster organization (i.e., meeting times, cluster goals),
Sept discussed board direction and vision, and drafted a meeting agenda for the 1st community cluster
2010 meeting.
Oct Established cluster norms, shared District 20/20 vision and community-based school reform model,
2010 developed cluster goals and mission statement.
Identified 3 cluster sub-committees (support, communication, and education), discussed ensuring that
Nov the cluster has a presence in the Clairemont community newspaper, Area Superintendent and Board
2010 Vice President shared budget information and process.
Dec
2010 None
Jan Established 3 sub-committees—support, education, communication—and further discussed committee
2011 work/purpose. Reviewed district and cluster data results. Discussed establishing a foundation.
Superintendent Kowba was present to address cluster concerns and questions. Issues discussed
Feb included: transportation, budget, class size, and establishment of a cluster foundation. The 3
2011 subcommittees worked together to establish their desired goals and outcomes.
Mar
2011 Dedicated to sub-committee work (establishing committee goals, objectives, and action items).
Apr
2011 Parent education event—Internet safety.
May Year-end wrap-up, presented summer challenge, discussed plans for the fall and forward movement of
2011 the cluster foundation.
June Summer challenge given to cluster members: Develop at least one relationship with a business or
2011 organization that could support the cluster group/schools.

Cluster - Organized Events:

Internet safety event coordinated by education committee (100 attendees).

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:
Equal participation from every principal in the cluster; increasing parent involvement at the leadership level; working to
grow support at each school site.

Cluster Next Steps:

Develop foundation; develop website; establish and grow community and business relationships; develop list of
needs from teachers.

Cluster Questions:
Will we have consistent support from the district, i.e., maintain the current Area Superintendent structure? It is
important to maintain our cluster with leadership that knows the needs of this community, losing the leadership
team we have built this year would be a huge loss to the progress we have made. Clairemont schools are
struggling to raise test scores, and we feel that with support from our current leadership we can continue most
effectively toward this goal.
Cluster Leaders/Officers:

• Jake Medcalf, 858-334-5325, jakem@lapres.org

• Becky Breedlove, 619-990-0248, bblove2@cox.net

Cluster Meeting Information:

st nd
• 1 Monday of the month (except for holidays, when the meeting is held on the 2 Monday of the month)
• 6-8 pm
• Meeting locations are rotated among the cluster schools
• Food, childcare, and translations services are provided

Cluster Schools/Principals:

School Principal
Carver PK-8 Stephanie Mahan
Clay ES Valerie Voss
Crawford CHAMPS William Laine
Crawford IDEA Emma Martinez
Crawford LaB Patrick Holland
Crawford MVAS Diego Gutierrez
Euclid ES Ana Biffle
Fay ES Eileen Moreno
Ibarra ES Susie Sovereign
Language Academy Veronika Lopez-Mendez
Mann MS Esther Omogbehin
Marshall ES Staci Monreal
Oak Park ES Milton Martin
Rolando Park ES Kimberly Meng

Cluster Members Include:

Schools with enrollment of less than 500 students have 2 Cluster Council members each (1 faculty/staff and 1
parent/community); schools with enrollments of over 500 students have 4 Cluster Council members each (2
faculty/staff and 2 parent/community). In addition, there are 2 student seats and 2 community foundation seats on
the Cluster Council. Cluster Council members serve on one of 5 committees (i.e., Learning Environment,
Learning Communities, Marketing, Funding, and Cluster Structure/Operations).

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 20.2% White 3.2%

Asian 20.7% English Learners 57.3%
Hispanic 53.2% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 99.4%
Pacific Islander .3% Special Education 13.1%
Cluster Mission Statement:

The Crawford Cluster is committed to higher levels of student achievement using the community-based school
reform model. The cluster strives to establish an outstanding, cohesive K-12 environment for the children of Mid-
City, Colina Park, El Cerrito, Oak Park, Redwood Village, Rolando, Rolando Park, and the College Area.

Cluster Goals/Objectives:

The Crawford Cluster will:

• Advocate for a first-class education for all students.
• Improve the communication among, and coordinate the efforts of, the schools within the cluster.
• Develop the cluster model to support students in gaining knowledge and skills.
• Empower faculty, staff, administrators, students, parents, guardians, and concerned citizens to work
together to improve student achievement.
• Identify cluster needs and develop position statements to ensure that the identified needs are met.

Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

The Cluster met in October, November, and December 2010, and January, February, March, April and May 2011.
The next meeting is scheduled for June 6, 2011. In 2010-11, the Cluster established its basic organization, made
decisions about the composition of the cluster members, discussed the cluster’s purpose, goals, and power,
determined that better translation ability will lead to increased parental involvement and engagement, worked to
come to consensus on a Title I position statement, and formed subcommittees.

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

• For the Crawford Cluster to have any autonomy, the Board of Education and/or Superintendent should
(within fiscal and state-mandated legal requirements) allow the cluster authority in making decisions
• Potential reversal of the Board’s Title I threshold decision
• Involvement of parents/community members
• Outreach efforts to parents/community members
• Large number of students who choose to leave cluster schools for other educational opportunities
• Impact of the higher percentage of certificated layoff notices in cluster schools
• Perceptions of the community and quality of education received by students in the cluster

Cluster Next Steps:

In 2011-12, cluster meeting dates, times and locations will be revisited so as to reduce the number of scheduling
conflicts with clusters shared by the same Board of Education member. In 2011-12, the Cluster will complete its
first position statement (Title I) for presentation to the Board of Education and will continue to craft position
statements on other topics. Subcommittees will continue to work toward greater K-12 cohesiveness and
improving student achievement. The Cluster will review ways and means to secure funding and better utilize and
share resources, and continue to use research and data to drive conversations.

Unique Cluster Characteristics:

The schools in the Crawford Cluster are in what is arguably San Diego’s most culturally, linguistically, and
ethnically diverse community. Compared to Diego as a whole, the cluster has higher student, teacher, and
administrator mobility; higher immigrant/newcomer populations; serves a large linguistically and ethnically diverse
community; faces profound economic disparity and has unique transportation challenges. However, Crawford
Cluster students and their families bring with them tremendous hope and promise for public education.
Cluster Leaders/Officers:

Name Title School Address Phone E-Mail

st
David Downey Principal Foster ES 6550 – 51 St., 92120 619-582-2728 ddowney@sandi.net
Pat Crowder Principal Henry HS 6702 Wandemere Dr., 92120 619-286-7700 pcrowder@sandi.net

Cluster Meeting Information:

Dates vary – usually one Monday per month at the Henry HS Library.

Cluster Schools/Principals:

School Principal School Principal

Benchley-Weinberger Bonnie Remington, Interim Dailard Elementary Jonathan McDade
Elementary
Foster Elementary Dave Downey Gage Elementary Kathy Burns
Green Elementary Bruce Ferguson Hardy Elementary Kathy Wolfe
Hearst Elementary Jamie Jorgensen Henry High Patricia Crowder
Lewis Middle Brad Callahan Marvin Elementary E. Jay Derwae
Pershing Middle Sarah Sullivan

Cluster Members Include:

Community Members Teachers 10
Parents 10 Students
Administrators 11 Support Staff 1

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 8% Multi-Racial 4%

Asian 3% Native American 1%
Hispanic 30% White 46%
Pacific Islander 1% English Learners 10%
Filipino 1% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 37%
Indo-Chinese 5% Special Education 10%

Cluster Mission Statement:

In service of K-12 educational excellence, the Patrick Henry High School Cluster Council seeks to unite all students,
staff, parents, and partners in pursuit of a common goal: advocate for cohesive, rigorous educational experiences for all
students.
Cluster Goals/Objectives:

Work in progress: Based on December parent survey, focus subcommittees have been formed: a) to foster student
creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills; b) to increase parent/guardian/gamily engagement; c) to provide
support for struggling students; d) advocacy; and e) to improve facilities/leverage resources.

Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

Aug 2010 Discussion within Area 8 leadership

Sept
Discussion within Area 8 leadership, Parent Survey discussion.
2010

Oct 2010 Establishing cluster make-up, Invitations to meeting, Town Hall Meeting

1st Cluster Meeting – Statement of Purpose: Preparing students for success in the 21st Century.
Nov 2010 Reviewed Council Binder, Vision 2020, Overview of Henry Cluster – school highlights, challenges,
establishing priorities, next steps.

Dec 2010 Developed phone and connection tree – took on establishing priorities and Area 8 Survey.

Overview of cluster purpose, district and Area 8 budget for 2011-12, Area 8 Survey, worked on mission
Jan 2011
statements: results – looking ahead – purpose, mission, bylaws
Business of the Cluster Council – improving instruction, increasing parent/guardian/family engagement,
ensuring consistency across grade levels, improving facilities/leveraging resources, fostering student
Feb 2011
creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, developing the role of the students in the
instructional process, providing support for struggling students.

Mar 2011 Development of mission statement

Apr 2011 Review mission statements

May Title 1 cluster input/information – Accountability, review and approve mission statement, budget/district
2011 update, district Cluster Conference planning, begin to establish working Subcommittees
June
Establish working Subcommittees
2011

Cluster - Organized Events:

Town Hall Meetings, Cluster Committee Meetings, District Cluster Conference.

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

Resources, making connections with community and partnerships.

Cluster Next Steps:

Establish working Subcommittees, working on bylaws.

Cluster Questions:

Next steps; Board direction for the coming years.

Cluster Leaders/Officers: (Temporary)

Name Title School Address Phone E-Mail

Ana Luisa Biffle Principal Euclid ES 4166 Euclid 619-282-2192 abiffle@sandi.net
Ave., 92105
Kim Kossyta Principal Rowan ES 1755 Rowan St., 619-262-7541 kkossyta@sandi.net
92105
Rosario Iannacone Parent 619-795-2015 riannacone@pricecharities.org

Cluster Meeting Information:

Meetings are determined from month to month. The next meeting is scheduled for June 6, 2011, 4-6 pm, Hoover HS.
2011-12 meeting schedule TBD.

Cluster Schools/Principals:

School Principal
Adams ES Derek Murchison
Central ES Cynthia Marten
Cherokee Point ES Godwin Higa
Clark MS Thomas Liberto
Edison ES Tavga Bustani
Euclid ES Ana Luisa Biffle
Franklin ES Jean Small
Hamilton ES Mary Taylor
Hoover HS Chuck Podhorsky
Joyner ES Gilbert Gutierrez, Jr.
Normal Heights ES John Aguilar
Parks ES Carolanne Buguey
Rowan ES Kim Kossyta
Wilson MS Bernadette Nguyen

Cluster Members Include:

Community 4 Teachers 14
Members
Parents 28 Students 0
Administrators 14 Support Staff 1

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 10% White 3%

Asian 11% English Learners 54%
Hispanic 75% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 100%
Pacific Islander 1% Special Education 11%
Cluster Mission Statement:

TBD

Cluster Goals/Objectives:

TBD

Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

The City Heights/Hoover Cluster met officially on March 22, May 2, and May 23, 2011. The main topics covered
include: March – introductions, sharing best practices and school cultures; May – beginning work on the
vision/mission statement, holding a retreat to build trust and strengthen relationships among stakeholder groups and
individuals. The June 6 meeting will focus on continuing to work on the vision/mission statement.

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

Keeping students in the articulation pattern, retaining staff, more parent support, high poverty risk factors, students
new to the United States, second language issues, communication access for parents.

Cluster Next Steps:

The 2011-12 focus will be to bring the entire community together to celebrate and learn about how the
community-based reform strategies can be implemented in the City Heights/Hoover Cluster, and to determine
governance structure to guide cluster work in improving teaching and learning for all.

Unique Cluster Characteristics:

Our cluster work is unique because it engages multiple community partners and stakeholders to address the whole
child, family and community needs through a community school-based framework. The City Heights/Hoover Cluster
is a microcosm of dozens of diverse languages and cultures concentrated in a relatively small concentrated
boundary area of our district.
Cluster Leaders/Officers:

TBD

Cluster Meeting Information:

rd
3 Wednesday of the month (September-November, January-May)
Taft Middle School Library
4:15-5:45 pm

Cluster Schools/Principals:
Elem Middle High
School Principal School Principal School Principal
Angier Kimberlee Kidd Montgomery Jonathan Ton Kearny CTA Laura Bellofatto
Carson Mitzi Merino Taft Mike George Kearny DMD Cheryl Hibbeln
Chesterton Herb Delute Kearny SCT V. Derek Morris
Cubberley Rosemary Cruz Kearny SIB Ana Diaz-Booz
Fletcher Gina Camacho-McGrath MET Mildred Phillips
Jones Rita Powell Twain Cesar Alcantar
Juarez Marceline Marques
Linda Vista Deborah Hatchell-Carter
Ross Tim Suanico
Wegeforth Linda Williams

Cluster Members Include:

Community Members 0 Teachers 18
Parents 18 Students 0
Administrators 18 Support Staff 0

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 13% White 17%

Asian 3% English Learners 34%
Hispanic 45% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 72%
Pacific Islander 1% Special Education 12%

Cluster Mission Statement:

TBD

Cluster Goals/Objectives:

TBD
Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

The Kearny Cluster began meeting in April 2011 to shape the cluster organization.

Cluster - Organized Events:

Currently, individual schools within the cluster are sponsoring events.

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

Branding and public relations; small high school configuration; middle school reputation and local enrollment;
continuous improvement in all cluster schools.

Cluster Next Steps:

Develop governance structure; develop and adopt by-laws or governing compact; develop “marketing” campaign for
cluster schools; develop middle school plan for cluster enrollment.

Cluster Questions:
How will the cluster support our middle schools with local enrollment?
How to identify existing and develop new “special programs” that can be articulated K-12?
Cluster Leaders/Officers:

Lisa Bonebrake, lisajbone@yahoo.com; Alison Lee, alisonbowenlee@yahoo.com; John May,

johnmayphd@yahoo.com; Fran Shimp, franandtodd@aol.com

Cluster Meeting Information:

rd
3 Tuesday of the month
5:15-6:45 pm
Muirlands Middle School Library
info@lajollacluster.com

Cluster Schools/Principals:

School Principal
Bird Rock ES Sally Viavada
La Jolla ES Donna Tripi
La Jolla HS Dana Shelburne
Muirlands MS Christine Hargrave
Torrey Pines ES Jim Solo

Cluster Members Include:

Community 2 Teachers 10 (+ 20 on committees)
Members
Parents 10 (+ 2 alternates) Students 0
Administrators 5 Support Staff 0

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 2% White 61%

Asian 8% English Learners 11%
Hispanic 23% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 19%
Pacific Islander 1% Special Education 6%

Cluster Mission Statement:

The mission of the La Jolla Cluster Association is to promote and support excellence in education in all La Jolla
public schools by:

• Working collaboratively to meet the needs of our diverse student population through the K-12 school
experience.
• Preparing our students for college, careers and life by providing a rigorous, comprehensive, standards-
based curriculum that includes technology, the visual and performing arts, physical education and character
education.
Cluster Goals/Objectives:

• To share ideas and resources.

• To identify common goals for K-12.
• To build bridges between schools to ease transitions.
• To determine spending priorities.
• To better understand teacher/staff needs and goals.
• To have a unified voice when working with the district.
• To create an environment of unity instead of competition in our community.
• To help shape how clusters are formed and utilized throughout the district.

Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

Aug 2010
Sept 2010 Site-Based Management
Oct 2010 School Board Election Forum
Nov 2010
Dec 2010 Cluster Survey and K-12 Partnership Agreement
Jan 2011 Teacher Brainstorming for Agreement Ideas
Feb 2011 K-12 Partnership Agreement – School District Updates
Mar 2011
Apr 2011 K-12 Partnership Agreement Debrief – School Staff Meetings
May 2011 Draft K-12 Partnership Agreement
Jun 2011

Cluster - Organized Events: (Currently sponsored by individual schools and foundations)

La Jolla Art & Wine Festival, Taste of La Jolla, Sunday Farmers’ Market, Various service club city/area-wide
activities

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

Alignment of K-12 Course of Study; alignment of bell times; cluster-wide K-12 Partnership Agreement; maintenance
of high academic performance; increased communication between schools.

Cluster Next Steps:

Alignment of bell times to facilitate cluster vertical teaming and collaboration; document needs of teachers
throughout the cluster, facilitate vertical and horizontal teaming, continuously improve communication between
sites.

Cluster Questions:

• How to align time schedules?

• How to maintain high student achievement?
• How to provide curriculum and instruction that challenges all students?

Unique Cluster Characteristics:

All sites within the cluster have a long history of individual high performance, and each site has its own school
culture that is now being incorporated into one cluster.
Cluster Leaders/Officers:

Title Name Location Phone Email

Johnson (teacher)/
Chairperson Michelle Bryant mbryant@sandi.net
Lincoln (parent)
1st Vice Chair Nicolas Espinal Lincoln/Porter 619-337-5401 nbespinal@aol.com

2nd Vice Chair Maria Leon Horton/Lincoln 619-279-9096 Gleon7@cox.net

Recording
Pat Washington Community Rep 619-203-9440 patwashingtonphd@aol.com
Secretary
oohaytta@yahoo.com,
Parliamentarian Sharon Powell Lincoln (parent/staff)
spowell@sandi.net

Cluster Meeting Information:

nd
2 Monday of the month, 6-8 pm
Porter Elementary South

Cluster Schools/Principals:

School Principal
Baker ES Linette Darosa
Balboa ES Fabiola Bagula
Chavez ES Celia Ramirez
Chollas/Mead ES Julia Bridi
Encanto ES Debra Baker
Horton ES Robin McCulloch
Johnson ES Tracey Jenkins-Martin
Knox K-8 Garry Rollins
Melvin Collins, Ana
Lincoln HS
Alvarez, Ana Shapiro
Millennial Tech MS Helen Griffith
Nye ES Karen Mooney
Porter ES Lillie McMillan
Valencia Park ES Andrew Gergurich
Webster ES Minerva Salas
Cluster Members Include:
Community Members 1 Teachers 1
Parents 3 Students 0
Administrators 0 Support Staff 1

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 20.6% White 1.6%

Asian 7.3% English Learners 51.2%
Hispanic 67.1% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 97.9%
Pacific Islander 1.2% Special Education 11.3%

Cluster Mission Statement:

To establish the structures and systems found in high-performing schools; develop a continuous culture of learning
based on a shared vision, values and goals; provide parents with information on school programs, school-wide
themes, and student achievement and to be the voice of advocacy for the schools and students in Area 1.

Cluster Goals/Objectives:
To develop parent leaders and student leaders; to develop a strong articulation in the Lincoln feeder pattern
schools; to strengthen and increase the achievement of all students; to define cluster issues and processes
needed to academically strengthen schools.

Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

• A different school presents information about the school’s achievements and challenges at each cluster
meeting. Topics have ranged from “Planning Strategies to Exit Program Improvement” to organizing
committees with a focus on specific targeted goals (Health and Human Resources, Technology,
Marketing and Partnerships, Curriculum and Instruction, Safety and Security).
• Two middle feeder schools were established (Knox and Millennial Tech Middle).
• Development of wraparound services for students and families.
• Increasing parent/community engagement.
• Establishing a PK-12 continuum.

Cluster - Organized Events:

A community Partners Fair showcased the existing Area 1 schools and offered an opportunity for parents,
students and principals from other schools to learn more about the programs and services offered.

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

Exiting schools from Program Improvement; articulation among pre-school, elementary, middle and high
schools; building links between the region, schools and neighborhood; student/parent/community safety
issues.

Cluster Next Steps:

Continue to explore avenues to meet identified goals, continue to expand the number of cluster participants,
establish infrastructures for improving student achievement.
Cluster Leaders/Officers:
Michael Snyder, 619.548.1552, michaelsnyderfinancial@yahoo.com

Cluster Meeting Information:

Second Monday of each month
5:30–7 p.m.
Madison High School, 4833 Doliva Dr., Room 101, San Diego 92117

Cluster Schools/Principals:
School Principal
Field Elementary Yesenia Robinson
Hawthorne Elementary Kimberly Lopez
Holmes Elementary Evvalenora (Evva) Cross
Lafayette Elementary Jerrilee Fischer-Garza
Lindbergh/Schweitzer Elementary Deanne Rohde
Sequoia Elementary Ryan Kissel
Whitman Elementary Pamela (Pam) Thompson
Creative, Performing, Media Arts (CPMA) Middle Scott Thomason
Innovation Middle Harlan Klein
Madison High Richard Nash
Mt. Everest K–12 Michael Rood
Muir K–12 Nancy Johnson

Cluster Members Include:

Community Members 18 Teachers 6
Parents 49 Students 0
Administrators 12 Support Staff 11

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 10% White 31%

Asian 3% English Learners 22%
Hispanic 43% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 60%
Pacific Islander 2% Special Education 17%

Cluster Mission Statement:

To raise student achievement by fostering high-performing schools that meet the needs of all children.
Cluster Goals/Objectives:
• Help to create/raise public awareness among community members and work with families, teachers,
school site personnel and residents of the Madison High School Community of Schools on school-related
issues.
• To develop ongoing relationships with community business entities and organizations.

Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

Aug
Begin preparation and determine goals of November Family Day event.
2010
Sept Introduction of vision 20/20 and building consensus for formal community of school organization,
2010 development of school partnership with related goals and cooperation.
Work to build communication between schools and parent groups, community organizations with direct
Oct 2010
involvement in Family Day event.
Brief community of schools on November event with emphasis on building relationship with community
Nov
and increased community awareness, increased communications between schools to develop better
2010
group relationships.
Debrief November event with community, work to build on positive aspects of the community wide
Dec
event and begin developing goals to become formal organization with emphasis on building community
2010
based organization modeled after vision 20/20.
Establishment of organization goals for remainder of school year with added emphasis toward
community involvement and continuing building of outreach programs. Meeting with Area
Jan 2011 Superintendent to discuss budget cuts and formulae for budgeting. Strong discussion for building
support for smaller schools. Initial discussion about having foundation and 501c3 status to be able to
help fund the organization schools.
Feb 2011 Discussion and consensus on first steps for foundation. Mission statement formally accepted.
Introduction and building of initial sub-committees to develop support for foundation and development
Mar 2011 of initial process to better understand community needs, and individual school goals to better develop
building process of bylaws for working foundation.
Meeting with district representative to discuss Title 1 changes and impacts on organization schools.
Apr 2011
Expanded on need for foundation/community of schools to relate information to the community at large.
Updates for all working subcommittees, emphasis on improved and new relationships with local area
businesses and organizations, need for better communication between schools and with community at
May
large and process of communicating school needs to community. Development of foundation goals and
2011
introduction of bylaws. Setting goal for foundation to be in place for new school year. Reaffirmation for
three initial sub-committees.
Subcommittee goals set for stakeholders. Introduction of initial officers for executive board of
June
foundation. Naming of foundation and introduction of event to introduce new foundation to the
2011
community, important parent partners and school staff in August.

Cluster - Organized Events:

• Annual Clairemont Community Support meeting—September
• Annual rummage sale and family Fund— November
• Annual Business Recognition Program—March

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:
• Increased mentorship (middle to elementary, high school to middle, adults to all levels) and professional
partnerships with intentional, project–oriented focus
• Articulation between cluster schools
• Greater awareness of events scheduled and needs at the individual site
• Parent Involvement/Volunteer opportunities clarified to support recruitment
• Drug and alcohol awareness and prevention
• Cyberbullying and acceptable use of technology resources
• Social/Emotional support and learning opportunities for students
 • One elementary school magnet has an overrepresentation of students with special needs. Need support
to integrate special needs students into general education classrooms and help them reach annual goals.
• The cluster needs to maintain a viable magnet program without financial support from the district. Magnet
schools keep many families from leaving the district. They give some students the extra needed focus of
interest.
• One elementary school is part of two high school clusters. It is difficult to recruit sufficient parental
participation to support two clusters.

Cluster Next Steps:

• Formation of community-based foundation and development of relationship with Clairemont High School
cluster organization.
• Further development of Community Outreach sub-committee to continue contacts with service
organizations and community-based businesses.
• Build base of contact with new Clairemont community volunteer organizing association.
• Further outreach to Clairemont Town Council and Chamber of Commerce.
• Coordinate with all schools within the cluster organization to develop foundation-funded project-based
programs.

Cluster Questions:
• How will the foundation's resources be equitably shared among schools?
• What will be the responsibilities of the cluster groups in relation to the district offices?
• What authority will be extended to the cluster group in response to the increased responsibilities?
• How will the school district give support to the cluster groups and will any official recognition of the cluster
groups be given by the district to the community at large?
• How will the cluster groups work in relationship with other?
• Will the cluster groups have a reporting responsibility to the district?
Cluster Leaders/Officers:

Bob Turner, Chairperson, rturner4@san.rr.com

Jennifer Kvalvik, Vice Chairperson/Teacher, jkvalvik@sandi.net

Cluster Meeting Information:

rd
Generally 3 Monday of the month, 6 p.m.
Mira Mesa High School Library

Cluster Schools/Principals:

School Principal
Challenger MS Sheelagh Moran
Ericson ES Maria Gomez
Hage ES Eric Takeshita
Hickman ES Jennifer Wroblewski
Mason ES Deidre Hardson
Mira Mesa HS Scott Giusti
Sandburg ES Laurie Hinzman
Walker ES Rochelle Dawes
Wangenheim MS Lamont Jackson

Cluster Members Include:

Community Members 20 Teachers 1
Parents 20 Students
Administrators 9 Support Staff

Cluster Demographics: [Students]

African American 7% White 19%

Asian 7% English Learners 20%
Hispanic 21% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 42%
Pacific Islander 1% Special Education 9%
Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/ Work:

Aug 2010
Sept 2010
Oct 2010 Cluster Volunteer Request form to be published in Mira Mesa Living, Councilman
Carl DeMaio spoke on city budget, Miramar pool issues, Prop S revision list.
Nov 2010 Meeting cancelled by B Turner
Dec 2010 No meeting
Jan 2011 Miramar pool, Prop S, Taste of Mira Mesa, District budget (Harry Sullivan), Title I
funds, Michael Clark workshops.
Feb 2011 Title I, Heroes organizations (school improvements), Senior Exhibitions
Mar 2011 Title I survey, Cluster vision and purpose, letter to Board on VAPA cuts on behalf of
cluster
Apr 2011 Cluster goals and purpose (getting input and writing down all ideas from all parties.
May 2011 School Reform presentations, Reps for Cluster conference, complete template,
formulate Cluster Mission statement, Principal updates. ReCentering workshop
attendance.
June 2011

Cluster - Organized Events:

• Cost Free – Recentering Parents and Students Workshops for all cluster students and their families.
• Street Fair Booth for September 2011 to market cluster organization.

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

• Challenges: 1) Sometimes attendance; 2) Fitting everything into our agenda.

• Needs: 1) Cluster website and technical support for our cluster schools websites.

Cluster Next Steps:

• To address and accomplish as many of our goals as possible.

• To create a cohesive blend as we enter into the Community Schools Reform for our cluster.
Cluster Leaders/Officers:

Brian Catanzaro, Interim Chair, pbcatanzaro@pacbell.net

Cluster Meeting Information:

rd
3 Thursday of each month (location rotates between cluster sites)

Cluster Schools/Principals:

School Principal
Mission Bay HS Fred Hilgers
Pacific Beach MS Julie Martel
Bayview Terrace ES Magdalena Tavasci
Crown Point ES Barbara Boone
Pacific Beach ES Sherry Turner
Sessions ES Sue DiVicariis

Cluster Members Include:

Community Members 0 Teachers 3
Parents 5 Students 0
Administrators 8 Support Staff 2

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 7.6% White 27.9%

Asian 3.6% English Learners 22.4%
Hispanic 57.2% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 64.7%
Pacific Islander .6% Special Education 11.2%

Cluster Mission Statement:

To improve academic performance through support of Title I students and through establishing high
expectations through programs such as International Baccalaureate (IB).

Cluster Goals/Objectives:

Roll back threshold for Title I support; maintain IB curriculum; expand student participation in IB.
Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

Researched student demographics, performance, and resident/non-resident status; nominal group technique
to determine priorities; researched limits in use of 501(c)3 expenditure; discussed La Jolla HS Autonomy
Agreement; reviewed all site budgets (“X” Factor, Title I, EIA, grants), bylaws and elections.

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

Retaining residential students through middle and high school; retaining staff trained in IB; educating over 700
high school students residing outside the cluster.

Cluster Next Steps:

Secure funding required for IB; promote student achievement; lobby Board of Education for interests; explore
development of Mission Bay Autonomy Agreement.

Unique Cluster Characteristics:

IB diploma program at elementary, middle and high schools; wide distribution of economic and social groups
in both community and CHOICE students; only 30% of high school students live in the neighborhood.
Cluster Leaders/Officers:

TITLE NAME SCHOOLS PHONE E-MAIL

Co-Chairperson Will Penick Community Rep penick_will@cox.net
Co-Chairperson Dora Maher Morse HS 619-262-0763 dmaher@sandi.net
Recording
Secretary Diana York Parent 619-634-0809

Parliamentarian Edwina Hardieway Community Rep 619-808-6301 ejhardieway@gmail.com

Cluster Meeting Information:

rd
3 Monday of each month
6:00-8:00 pm
Morse High School Library

Cluster Schools/Principals:

School Principal
Audubon K-8 Carr, Sharon
Bell MS Dodson, Michael
Bethune K-8 Spiegel, John
Boone ES Cannie, Mary
Freese ES Hills, Alma
Fulton K-8 Kirkland, Gwendolyn
Lee ES Jimenez, James
Morse HS Shelton, Harry
Paradise Hills ES Craig, Donald
Penn ES Nelson, Joan
Perry ES Austin, Elizabeth
SCPA Lizarraga, Mitzi
Zamorano ES King, Caroline

Cluster Members Include:

Community Members 2 Teachers 0
Parents 1 Students 0
Administrators 0 Support Staff 1
Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 18.7% White 3.8%

Asian 31.6% English Learners 28.8%
Hispanic 38.8% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 73.6%
Pacific Islander 1.8% Special Education 11.6%

Cluster Mission Statement:

To establish the structures and systems found in high-performing schools including a continuous culture of
learning based on a shared vision, values and goals. To provide parents in the Morse cluster with information
on school programs, school-wide themes, and student achievement. To be the voice of advocacy for the
schools and students in Area 1.

Cluster Goals/Objectives:

• To develop parent leaders and student leaders

• To develop a strong articulation of the schools in the Morse feeder pattern
• To strengthen and increase the achievement of all students
• To define the cluster issues and processes needed to academically strengthen the schools.

Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

A different school presents information about the school’s achievements and challenges at each cluster
meeting. Topics have ranged from “Planning Strategies to Exit Program Improvement” to Title I funding.

Cluster - Organized Events:

The Morse Cluster held a community Partners Fair that showcased the existing Area 1 schools and offered an
opportunity for parents, students and principals from other schools to learn more about the programs and
services offered.

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

• Exiting schools from Program Improvement

• Articulation among pre-school, elementary, middle and high schools
• Building links between the region, schools, and neighborhood
• Student/parent/community safety issues

Cluster Next Steps:

• Expanding the number of participants at future monthly Community Cluster meetings

• Establishing infrastructures for improving student achievement
• Developing wraparound services for students and families
• Increasing parent/community engagement
• Establishing PK-12 continuum
Cluster Leaders/Officers:
Elections will be held in October 2011. Contact information is available at www.pointlomacluster.com.

Cluster Meeting Information:

st
• The Point Loma Cluster Schools Foundation meets on the 1 Monday of the month, 6 times per year
(October, November, January, February, March, and May)
• 6:30-8 pm
• Correia Middle School Library

Cluster Schools/Principals:

School Principal
Barnard ES Edward Park
Cabrillo ES Nestor Suarez
Correia MS Patty Ladd
Dana MS Diane Ryan
Dewey ES Tanya Belsan
Loma Portal ES Glenda Gerde
Ocean Beach ES Margaret Johnson
Point Loma HS Bobbie Samilson
Silver Gate ES Sandy McClure
Sunset View ES Jackie McCabe

Cluster Members Include:

Each cluster school is represented by:
• 2 parents (elected by other parents)
• 1 staff (elected by staff)
• 1 principal (appointed)
• 2 students (nonvoting)
• 1 Area Superintendent/district representative (appointed)

The general board will vote for an executive board (president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, chair for each area of
emphasis).

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 7% White 46%

Asian 2% English Learner 15%
Hispanic 38% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 44%
Pacific Islander .5% Special Education 10%
Cluster Mission Statement:
It is the mission of the Point Loma Cluster (PLC) to inspire in each student a joy of life-long learning and inquiry about
one’s individuality, community, and the world. As stakeholders, our commitment is to sustain and support the best
practices in education that empower each child with knowledge, skills and values necessary to become confident,
self-sufficient adults and global citizens. The result is that the PLC is the highest quality option for all students and
stakeholders.

Cluster Vision Statement:

The Point Loma Cluster Schools, through innovative practices and collaborative efforts, will be the model of
educational excellence; inspiring passionate life-long learners, critical thinkers, unbounded achievers, and responsible
global citizens.

Cluster Values:

• EXCELLENCE: Educational superiority attained through perseverance, hard work and dedication to learning.
• INTEGRITY: Education with a foundation of honesty, courage and respect.
• INNOVATION: An educational program which uses creative problem solving, global thinking and exploration
and “risk” taking to determine and implement change so that our students can be well prepared to actively
participate and be contributing members of society.
• COLLABORATION: Respecting and valuing input from all community members (students, parents and staff)
and working together to create a superior educational program.
• BALANCE: Encouraging students to discover and then maintain a balance that includes physical, emotional
and mental fitness.

Cluster Goals/Objectives:
The PLCF has identified five main areas of strategic areas of emphasis in which to direct its efforts:
• Information Communication Technology (ICT) Literacy
• Learning Environment
• Learning Communities
• Finance
• Marketing
Specific goals and tasks in these areas are shown on the Strategic Plan on our website
(www.pointlomacluster.com, under the Digital Filing Cabinet).

The PLC desires to have as much decision making as possible at the cluster and school site levels versus a
one-size-fits-all District approach. Because the needs across the District vary dramatically, the PLC is
focusing on the goals outlined in the strategic plan. In 2010-11, the PLC adopted 6 Buckets of
Empowerment:
• Budget
• Staffing
• Curriculum
• Scheduling
• Accountability
• Leadership
To learn more about these areas, see our Courageous Conversation and other resources on our website
(www.pointlomacluster.com, under Cluster Governance News and Announcements).
Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

After agenda approval, reports are provided by each of the 5 chairs, the Area Superintendent, and the lead
principal. Schools are then invited to present (pre-arranged) on best practices, needs, ideas, etc. as relevant
to coordinating with other cluster schools. Old and New Business as well as Open Forum are constantly
changing. A great deal of time was spent in 2010-11 on governance with reach-out meetings, surveys,
forums, etc. This work resulted in the development of 6 empowerment areas and a plan to expand the 2011-
12 general board.

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

See Goals/Objectives section above; visit the Point Loma Cluster Schools website at
www.pointlomacluster.com.

Cluster Next Steps:

• Completion of the Empowered Schools Framework, including sites of authority.

• Improvement of communication systems, including potential use of district telephone messaging
system for broadcasting in Spanish.
• Implementation of caring values programs at all of our elementary schools.
• Emphasizing that consistency of message and enforcement of behavioral expectations in each school
and classroom from K – 12 are vital, as are similar core values throughout the cluster.
• Completion of traffic safety improvements, and initiation of enforcement to encourage appropriate
driving behavior.
• Adaptation and adoption of the Model School Library Standards for California Public Schools K -12.
• Survey of elementary schools by Science SIG in regards to science resources and instruction;
agreement on the skill sets desirable by grade level.
• Initiation of a VAPA SIG to begin discussing how to integrate the visual arts into the K – 12 curricular
areas as a means to encourage creative thinking.
• Initiation of a means to determine what our high school students are learning and retaining in regards
to civics. Our high school students should be able to correctly answer questions on the U.S.
Naturalization Exam. Learning about our country and the rights and responsibilities that accompany
citizenship is an important part of being a good citizen.
• Continuation of the conversations on establishing a culture of accountability; and the expectations for
principals, teachers, parents, and students. This includes defining the "instructional leadership" we
desire from our principals; and students taking responsibility for asking questions if they don’t
understand the assignments.
• Identification of financial resources for the cluster.
• See website for regular updates, or join our e-blast list (sign up at: www.pointlomacluster.com)

Unique Cluster Characteristics:

PT. LOMA CLUSTER SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

In 2006, a group of parents, teachers, and principals from each school engaged in a strategic planning process to
develop a unified vision for the Point Loma Cluster. Called the Point Loma Cluster Schools Foundation (PLCSF),
the primary objective of the group was to improve the communication between and coordinate the efforts of the
cluster schools, thus supporting the development of the cluster into an outstanding, cohesive K-12 environment
for the children of Point Loma and San Diego. The PLCSF received widespread support and participation not only
at the local school level, but also from district staff, the two Area Superintendents, and the area Board of
Education member. The grassroots effort of the PLCSF was the first of its kind within the school district and was
seen as a design model for other clusters within the district. The PLCSF has become a California nonprofit public
benefit corporation to further its work.
The Point Loma Cluster has been very fortunate to have visionary parent volunteers, some who can
conceptualize strategically and some who are “hands-on.” The leadership team has worked incredibly well
together. Also, principals, parents, and teachers are collaborating on finding solutions for a number of cluster
priorities.

ABOUT OUR SHOOLS

The Point Loma Cluster consists of 10 schools and over 6,000 students. Cluster schools consist 7 elementary
schools: Barnard, Cabrillo, Dewey, Loma Portal, Ocean Beach, Sunset View and Silver Gate (grades K-4); 2
middle schools: Dana (grades 5/6) and Correia (grades 7/8); and Point Loma High School (grades 9-12).

Our cluster utilizes an e-blast system to communicate to our cluster community and individual schools. A central
website provides links to all cluster schools. Included on the website are Community Pages where community
events, sports, camps, and community service opportunities are listed.

The Traffic Safety Specific Interest Group is collaborating with the City of San Diego, San Diego Unified School
District, Police Department, and Councilmember Faulconer's office to determine what safety improvements are
viable and develop an ACTION plan. Meetings were held with principals and detailed plans have been developed
for all 10 of our cluster schools. To date, site visits and plans have been conducted with City Traffic Engineers at
7 of the school sites, and improvements have been initiated.

The PLCSF established a Science SIG consisting of science teachers from the middle and high schools to
conceptualize a dynamic and engaging K – 12 science articulation plan. The Science SIG is discussing what skill
sets teachers want their students to obtain before matriculating to the next grade level, with a focus on elementary
school nuts and bolts.

Finding that students were having difficulty in mathematic word problems, as well as following instructions in
scientific experiments, led to an emphasis in vertical teaming for mathematics, as well as the Science SIG focus
on elementary schools (for example, having students create a set of instructions for making a peanut butter and
jelly sandwich).

Conversations have been initiated on establishing a culture of accountability, in which every stakeholder takes
personal accountability to think and act in a way that will achieve the agreed-upon results. The four Steps to
Accountability are See It, Own It, Solve It, and Do It. Source: “Journey to the Emerald City: Achieve a
Competitive Edge by Creating a Culture of Accountability” by Roger Connors and Tom Smith.

Under Learning Communities, GATE, Special Education and English Learners are united across the cluster to
connect parents and staff on relevant issues and concerns.

Updates and definitions for other areas of our work can be found on the website under committees.
Cluster Leaders/Officers: (Representative Selections – May 11, 2011)

Position Representative and Contact Info. Student Representative and Contact Info.

Co-Chair Franny Del Carmen – SDHEC Counselor Xochitl Delgado

fdelcarmen@sandi.net xochitldlgd@yahoo.com

Co-Chair Michael Bradley – SDHEC, Parent Koll Kilmade, SDHEC – Sci.Tech

mbtaco@aol.com, 619.742.8226 kkilmade@gmail.com

Secretary Karina Reyes – V.P., Golden Hill K-8 Emerson Phillips, SDHEC – IS
kreyes@sandi.net em.phillips92@yahoo.com

Treasurer Andrea Calhoon- Teacher, SDHEC, Business Luke Osorio SDHEC - Business
acalhoon@sandi.net 6.284.1033

Elementary Minerva Espejo, Parent-Sherman Ashley Anaya

minervae@gmail.com ashanaya@yahoo.com
Chair
M.S./K-8 Sonny Burton, Parent- Roosevelt, McKinley Elysa McClelland
sonnyspain@ymail.com elysamclelland@yahoo.com
Chair
H.S. Chair Mary Sunderland, Teacher SDHEC, SoComm Marco Buelna
msunderland@sandi.net marcob2014@yahoo.com

Cluster Meeting Information:

Next Meeting June 8, 2011
5:30 p.m.
SDHS Complex Library

Cluster Schools/Principals:

School Principal

Birney K–5 (YR) Amanda Hammond-Williams

Burbank K–5 (YR) Carolina Flores-Wittman

Emerson/Bandini K–6 (YR) Mirna Estrada

Florence K–5 (YR) Mary Estill

Garfield K–5 (YR) Chip Dale

Golden Hill K–8 (YR) Juan Romo

 School Principal

Grant K–8 Monique Robertson

Jefferson K–5 Francisco Morga

Kimbrough K–5 (YR) Flavia Soria

Logan K–8 (YR) Antonio Villar

McKinley K–5 Julie Ashton-Gray

Perkins K–8 (YR) Fernando Hernández

Rodriguez K–5 Claudia Jordan

Sherman K–5 Eddie Caballero

Washington K–5 Janie Wardlow

ALBA 6–12 R. Vernon Moore

Memorial Prep Georgina Barajas-Aguirre

Roosevelt 6–8 Arturo Cabello

Garfield 9–12 Jolie Pickett

SD Early/Middle College 9–12 Liz Larkin

SD Business 9-12 Joe Austin

SD CIMA 9–12 Anisha Dalal

SD IS 9–12 Kirk Ankeney

SD LEADS 9–12 Rocío Weiss

SD MVPA 9–12 Consuelo Manriquez

SD SciTech 9–12 Dianne Cordero

Cluster Members Include:

Community Members 3 Teachers 2
Parents 3 Students 7
Administrators 1 Support Staff 1

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 8% White 11%

Asian 1% English Learners 47%
Hispanic 76 % Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 90%
Pacific Islander 0% Special Education 13%
Cluster Mission Statement:

In Progress

Cluster Goals/Objectives:

To increase levels of learning and teaching for all, by focusing on strategies to improve:

• Vertical alignment strategies (Pre K-12), including A-G requirements

• Student attendance
• Parent engagement
• English Learner success rates
• Special Education success rates
• Cluster Governance

Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

The San Diego Cluster began officially meeting in April 2011. Meeting topics included presentation of Area 3
goals, and discussion of SDHEC redesign. In May 2011, the cluster elected officers and discussed cluster
governance and Area 3 goals. The June 2011 meeting will focus on development of the cluster mission
statement and operating procedures.

Cluster - Organized Events:

• Cluster Meetings
• Town Hall Meetings
• PIQE Trainings - Across most Area 3 schools
• PREP Training for Parent Advocacy
• Area 3 Thinking Maps Training (Leadership/Teachers) (ToT model)

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

• Resources (fiscal and human); loss of capacity, resources and staff members. See Area 3 Schools
Improvement Timeline.
• Stabilizing staffing in the cluster’s lowest performing schools.
• Developing an enhanced monitoring structure for PI schools.
• Streamlining processes of vertical communication.

Cluster Next Steps:

To ensure that the foundation (Vision, Goals) is in place to launch the cluster into the coming year and carry
forward to the future successful teaching and learning across Area 3.

Cluster Mission Statement:

In progress

Cluster Questions:
• Will this process be supported next year even if there is a change in Area Superintendents?
• What authority does the cluster have in making decisions to improve student success?
Cluster Leaders/Officers:

Co-Chairpersons: Lorelle Mudd, 858-945-2442, Lorelle@san.rr.com; Tamara Hurley, 858-547-1557,

tamara_hurley@hotmail.com

Cluster Meeting Information:

rd
2010-11: 3 Tuesday of the month
rd
2011-12: 3 Wednesday of the month (beginning in September 2011)
4:30 to 6:00 p.m.
Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Seminar Room

Cluster Schools/Principals:

School Principal
Dingeman ES Kim Lochtefeld
Jerabek ES Paul Gilroy
Marshall MS Michelle Irwin
Miramar Ranch ES Peggy Crane
Scripps ES Greg Collamer
Scripps Ranch HS Kurt Madden

Cluster Members Include:

Total Community Members 24 Teachers 0
Parent/Teacher Group Reps 6 Site Governance Reps 5
Administrators 6 Other SR Committee Reps 7

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 4% White 53%

Asian 13% English Learners 8%
Hispanic 14% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 13%
Pacific Islander 0% Special Education 6%

Cluster Mission Statement:

The Scripps Ranch Schools Committee is committed to working together to assist in providing educational
excellence to the children of the Scripps Ranch Cluster of public schools.

Cluster Goals/Objectives:

The Scripps Ranch Schools Committee is a partnership among the schools’ administration, parents and
community leaders who collaborate, plan and enhance the traditions of Scripps Ranch to encourage values in
learning, develop essential skills and attitudes for a productive life, provide a safe nurturing environment and
foster scholastic excellence.
Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

Sept 2010 Principal updates, update on School Board actions.

Oct 2010 Principal updates, Race to Nowhere showing, A/C status at SRHS, SR School Cluster
Concept discussion.
Nov 2010 Principal updates, discuss SRSC webpage and mission.
Jan 2011 Principal updates, Stanley Steemer school partnership discussion, Angela Bass
presentation of ‘Vision 2020 for Educational Excellence’.
Feb 2011 Principal updates, Cluster long & short term goals, District budget update
Mar 2011 Board Member Beiser in attendance. Town hall meeting update regarding community
based reform.
Apr 2011 Principal updates, National Children’s Study presentation, architectural presentation of
SRHS A/C and site modernization.
May 2011 Principal updates, District update, meeting day change, Educate Our State.

Cluster - Organized Events:

The Scripps Ranch Schools Committee recently organized a community showing of ‘Race to Nowhere’ and is
currently promoting the ‘Educate Our State’ Rally.

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

1. Academic Priorities – Support the GATE program, VAPA and music programs, more support for students
with special needs, and continue to provide professional development opportunities for administrators and
teachers.
2. Operational Priorities – Student safety including A/C, traffic control and site security.
3. Budget Priorities – Increase per student allocation and instructional materials budget, continue flexibility in
developing individual budgets, support i21 technology, provide funding for various positions including
ELST, counselors, nurses, supervising staff and support/admin staff.

Cluster Next Steps:

Determine the function of the SRSC in the district community-based cluster model.

Cluster Questions:
How does a community-based cluster model succeed with constant restructuring and particularly the high turnover
rate of school supervisors?
Cluster Leaders/Officers:
Contact Title School Address Phone E-Mail
Susan Levy Principal Farb MS 4880 La Cuenta Dr., 858.496.8090 slevy@sandi.net
92124
Stacy Jones Principal Miller ES 4343 Shields St., 92124 858.496.8319 sjones2@sandi.net
Listy Gillingham Principal De Portola MS 11010 Clairemont Mesa 858.496.8080 lgillingham@sandi.net
Blvd., 92124

Cluster Meeting Information:

The Serra Cluster Council meets monthly from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at rotating school sites. All dates are
nd rd
selected at the beginning of the year and usually fall between the 2 and 3 week of the month.

Cluster Schools/Principals:

School Principal School Principal

De Portola Middle Listy Gillingham Farb Middle Susan Levy
Hancock Elementary Yolanda Lewis Kumeyaay Elementary Judy Fogel, Interim
Miller Elementary Stacy Jones Serra High Mike Jimenez
Tierrasanta Elementary Lorelei Olsen Vista Grande Elementary Cathy Calcagno

Cluster Members Include:

Community Members 4 Teachers 8
Parents 4 Students 1
Administrators 8 Support Staff 1

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 11% Multi-Racial 5%

Asian 3% Filipino 3%
Hispanic 32% White 39%
Pacific Islander 1% English Learners 11%
Indo-Chinese 4% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 52%
Native American 1% Special Education 12%

Cluster Mission Statement:

The Serra Cluster Council, a community-based team, is dedicated to improving the educational experience of all K-12
students, families and staff, thereby ensuring academic excellence and opportunity.
Cluster Goals/Objectives:

The Serra Cluster Council will focus on positive changes that impact student learning and achievement by improving
instruction for all students, increasing attendance and family engagement, providing vertical teaming PreK-12 and
strengthening articulation among elementary, middle and high school students, as well as developing continuity and
faithful implementation of curriculum throughout the cluster.

Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

Aug 2010 (none)

Sept Introduction of concept of cluster councils during district professional development with Area Supt. and
2010 administrators in Serra and Henry Clusters.

Oct 2010 Planning meeting with Area Supt. and identification of participants from each school.
First meeting. Introductions of members, principals presented information on the cluster model, Vision
20/20, established norms, identification of student attendance as the first challenge to discuss. Year
Nov 2010 round school calendar is identified as a large problem for the cluster, especially military parents.

Dec 2010 (none)

Shared results of cluster survey and identified areas of community focus which included improving
instruction, increasing family engagement, improving facilities, fostering student creativity, critical thinking
and problem solving skills, developing the role of the student in the instructional process, providing
Jan 2011 support for struggling students and ensuring consistency across grade levels.
Learn how to write a mission statement and break into groups to actually develop the Serra Cluster
Feb 2011 mission statement.
Determine the 3 subgroups that will begin working outside of the monthly meetings; year round schools,
Mar 2011 leveraging resources, and by-law development. Budget update and Title 1 funding survey.
Vote on final version of mission statement and by-laws. Each subgroup reports back on their progress
Apr 2011 this month. District budget update and discussion of grant writing
June
2011 TBD

Cluster - Organized Events:

Town Hall Meeting on February 28, 2011

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

• Year round vs. traditional schedule for parents and community, especially when it comes to student
attendance.
• Large military population that is transient.
• Student attendance in general is not as high as in other areas.
• Dwindling resources; especially of concern is the potential loss of Title 1 dollars.
• Elimination of Gate, AVID, lower class size, and elective classes at some schools as a result of budget
cuts.
• Students who ride the bus, as well as their parents, often do not feel a connection to the schools and
community.
• Many parents in the community Choice to other communities.
Cluster Next Steps:

• Continue to meet monthly around goals

• Find out more information on converting all 4 schools to traditional schedule
• Continue committee work
• Explore grants that may be available to help wit budget shortfall

Cluster Questions:

• Can the decision regarding Title 1 funds be changed as a result of cluster concerns? (The Serra Cluster
voted unanimously and with no abstentions regarding the following: Maintain the current 3 tiered funding
model for Title 1 at the 40%, 60% and 85% level.)
• Why do private schools get money and services with Title 1 dollars and with the proposal, some schools
with large populations of free and reduced?
• Why don’t schools with high military populations receive additional funding through the military?
Cluster Leaders/Officers:

Jeff Olivero, Principal, 858-457-3040 x 201

Becky Arce, Parent, barce@ucsd.edu

Cluster Meeting Information:

th
4 Monday of each month (September-November, January-May)
4:30-6:00 pm
UCHS Media Center

Cluster Schools/Principals:

School Principal
Curie ES Chris Juarez
Doyle ES Kimberly Moore
Spreckels ES Cecilia Fernandez
Standley MS Heidi Lyon
University City HS Jeff Olivero

Cluster Members Include:

Community Members 2 Teachers 5
Parents 5 Students 3
Administrators 5 Support Staff 0

Cluster Demographics: (Students)

African American 4% White 40%

Asian 12% English Learners 18%
Hispanic 31% Socio-Economically Disadvantaged 33%
Pacific Islander 0% Special Education 7%

Cluster Mission Statement:

The UC Cluster Committee is dedicated to improving educational endeavors and student achievement in
the University City cluster of public schools.

Cluster Goals/Objectives:

• Provide a unified voice when working with the district.

• Identify common goals for all children attending the 5 schools in University City for a steady
th
progression from Kindergarten through 12 grade.
• Share ideas and resources between cluster schools.
Monthly Cluster Meeting Focus/Work:

Aug
2010
Sept
2010 Organization, formation of committees, formalize governance

Oct 2010 Cluster Vision/Mission, discretionary/district budget

Nov
2010
Dec
2010

Jan 2011 School reports, rigor/bell times/technology and communications, school volunteers

Feb 2011

Mar 2011 Community schools, budget process, rigor committee

Apr 2011 Title I presentation discussion, rigor committee/technology/bell times

May
2011 Budget, committee updates, organization for 2011-12
June
2011

Cluster - Organized Events:

(Events currently held by school or community foundation)

• EdUCate Taste of Triangle
• EdUCate Oktoberfest
• Doyle International Fair

Cluster Challenges/Needs/Concerns:

• K-12 vertical teaming and coordination

• Coordination of school bell times for collaboration
• Standards of rigorous classroom structure
• Integration of technology into classroom structure
• Use of technology on parent communication

Cluster Next Steps:

TBD