As I write this Op-Ed Piece for the January 2012 New Year publication, all schools in the Capistrano Unified School District are on Holiday, re-opening on January 3. Prior to the recess students were enjoying parties in their class rooms celebrating holiday themes.
Science Camp
This year the outing was held in Hi Trails Mountain Camp.
I interviewed one student, Marcos Orellana(shown here). He is privileged to go annually on vacation with his parents and siblings. But this trip was for Marcos by himself with his peers and teachers as chaperons.
LT: How long you were at the camp?
Marcos: We were at the camp for four days and
three nights.
LT: How was the experience?
Marcos: It was fun, good to be by myself, hang out with my friends.
LT: Did you miss your parents; did you call your mom?
Marcos: I did not have cell phone and I did not miss her that much.
LT: How did you like the Science Camp?
Marcos: It was a great trip. I learned a lot. It was nice to have fresh air. We learned about nature and what we are using that comes from nature; like this table is made out of trees. We need to sustain our nature for the future. I believe this is a great experience for the children under the adult supervision and also a good experience for the parents. The children are growing up! I recall my children going through the camping trip and they still remember it now in their early 40s.
CUSD Board Meeting
During the Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) Board's December 12 meeting, the CUSD leadership was reorganized. Dr. Gary Prichard was elected as President, replacing Jack Brick. Gar, who represents Area 5, was elected in 2010 and his term ends November 2012. Mr. John Alpay was elected Vice President and Lynn Hatton as the Clerk of the Board.
The Board deliberated on the redistricting plans presented by the demographer. There were five plans presented and Board took three plans out of consideration.
The demographer was presented with comments to be incorporated in two new plans to be presented in the January 9 meeting.
In accordance with Measure H, passed by the voters, the redistricting plan is required to bring a voter equality in seven "Areas."
As a result, CUSD will spend less money for the seven Area-wide elections versus the former District-wise election.
I also think the Ladarians should pay a closer attention as the boundary change may affect the school attendance in future.
Very few citizens attended the redistricting plan deliberation.
(Ram Mukherji is a former Trustee of Tri-City L.A. County Unified School District and Past President of Ladera Ranch Maintenance Corporation.)