Superintendent's Updates
Dear Baldwin Park USD Community,
During the month of March, I had the privilege of attending various school community events that brought together families, staff, and community members in support of learning. Read Across America activities at our elementary schools brought forth fun ways to experience the joy of reading together. Sierra Vista High School’s Showcase Event demonstrated the power of community gatherings, celebrated student achievements, engagement with staff and student leaders, and explored extracurricular programs in a new outdoor format. I look forward to more opportunities where our school community continues to support our students’ growth.
This month, we have an exciting lineup of Visual Arts Performances planned across various music programs. These events highlight the talents and creativity of our students, and we hope you will join us in supporting them. In addition, the District is thrilled to announce the upcoming rollout of new school and District websites. While we make this transition soon, we appreciate your patience and understanding as we fully launch. All website addresses will remain the same. These improved platforms will allow us to better showcase student and staff achievements and provide valuable resources to our community.
We would like to inform our families that open enrollment for the 2024-25 school year is currently open and will close on April 19th. Please contact your respective home schools for more information on how to register your incoming students or visit our enrollment page on the BPUSD website.
I would like to express gratitude to our school community, families, partners, and the City of Baldwin Park, for their unwavering support of our students. As we approach the end of the school year, let us continue to build on this momentum.
Together, we can make these last few months of the school year truly remarkable.
Sincerely,
Froilan N. Mendoza, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
STUDENTS WIN BIG AT SGV DISTRICT SPRING COUNCIL ART & MUSIC COMPETITION
Students from Sierra Vista and Baldwin Park High Schools sweep top awards at the San Gabriel Valley Art and Music Competition on March 8, 2024. Six talented students secured top honors granted by the Baldwin Park Woman's Club at the San Gabriel Valley Art and Music Competition out of a total of 17 submissions.
Students from both high schools submitted outstanding artwork across various themes including personal connection, creative expression, dark contrast, favorite food, and pop culture. These young artists claimed first, second, and third place showcasing their remarkable talent and creativity.
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION TEAM LEADS HEAD START ADVOCACY AT THE STATE CAPITOL
BPUSD ECE Policy Council Executive Board members and staff participated in Head Start California's Advocacy Day on March 12th. The impactful trip commenced with a comprehensive training session, equipping participants with the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively engage with legislators and convey the importance of Head Start initiatives.
As part of the advocacy efforts, representatives from ECE had the privilege of meeting with Assemblywoman Blanca E. Rubio at the Capitol Office. The meeting served as a platform for passionate advocacy, as parents expressed their unwavering support for Head Start programs and emphasized the transformative impact these programs have on families within the community.
TRACY ELEMENTARY PRESENTED WITH COMMEMORATIVE SIGN FOR SCHOOL GARDEN
Tracy Elementary School received a special plaque from West Coast Arborists, Inc. for their Community Friendship Garden on March 12, 2024. The garden project began as part of their science studies and the hands-on experiments sparked excitement and curiosity among the students.
Beyond science lessons, the garden quickly became a versatile space. Students enjoy reading there with their buddies and find it a peaceful spot to relax.
SIERRA VISTA MIDDLE SCHOOL RECEIVES EMPOWERING VISIT FROM CESAR CHAVEZ’ GRANDSON
Sierra Vista Middle School welcomed distinguished guest speaker Andres P. Chavez, the executive director of the National Chavez Center and grandson of the iconic civil rights leader, Cesar Chavez, to its campus on March 13.
Students had the honor of listening to his educational presentation and historical legacy. Chavez engaged with students from Dual Language, History, and English Language Arts classes, delivering a powerful message about his grandfather's enduring legacy.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAY ENGAGES TEACHERS AND STAFF ACROSS THE DISTRICT
Certificated and Classified staff across BPUSD gathered for an empowering Professional Development Day for unified growth on Friday, March 15, 2024.
This student-free day brought together educators from early childhood education through high school levels, alongside dedicated classified staff members, for a day of learning, sharing, and networking. With nearly 180 teachers and over 200 classified staff members in attendance, the events showcased the collective dedication to improving education.
Girls on The Run Program Expands Across BPUSD
The District is thrilled to expand the Girls on The Run program to all middle and elementary schools. This expansion offers more female students the opportunity to join this empowering after-school program.
Girls on The Run is a national organization that helps girls in grades 3-8 develop social, emotional, physical, and behavioral skills. Female students in grades 3-8 began their training for the 5k event happening on May 11th. Coaches are preparing weekly practices that include goal setting, warm-ups, team building, workouts, snack breaks, and reflection journaling.
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BPUSD EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION NOW ENROLLING
BPUSD ENROLLMENT FOR 2024-25 CLOSES APRIL 19
THINK TOGETHER NOW ENROLLING FOR SUMMER PROGRAM
BALDWIN PARK ADULT AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION IS NOW ENROLLING FOR THE JANITORIAL AND HOME CARE AID SPRING COURSES
PARENTS' PLACE 29TH ANNUAL INFORMATION FAIR & FESTIVAL
SERVING FAMILIES OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES
For more information, please visit: Eventbrite.
STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT WITH HAZEL HEALTH
*Additional details are available on our District website calendar.
| Tuesday, April 16 | Regular Meeting of the Board of Education |
| Friday, April 19 | Last day to register for 2024-25 School Year Enrollment |
| Monday, April 22 | Earth Day |
| Sunday, April 28 | Parents' Place 29th Annual Information Fair & Festival |
Stay connected for the latest Baldwin Park Unified news and announcements:
Visit our District Website:
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Parents, sign up for ParentSquare:
Superintendent’s March Message, 2024
Dear Baldwin Park USD Community,
As we step into the month of March, I'm delighted to extend a warm welcome to our new Board of Education member Annalynn C. Apolinario. With valuable experience and a passion for her community, Ms. Apolinario is set to bring a fresh perspective and insight to our Governing Board.
As we gear up for our Districtwide enrollment period, I look forward to the opportunity of welcoming new families into our community and continuing to nurture existing relationships. This month, our schools will host Open House events as a forum to showcase the remarkable achievements of our students and staff. From academic accomplishments to artistic endeavors, our Open House events provide a glimpse into the vibrance and innovation that defines our District. We hope you will join us in supporting our school community!
On March 15, Baldwin Park USD will hold a Professional Development Day for our dedicated staff. This student-free day will offer educators the opportunity to engage in workshops and collaborative sessions, further enhancing their skills for our collective success. Please note, this will be a student-free day, and our school offices will be closed to allow all staff members to take part in the Professional Development Day!
Students across the District will have the opportunity to visit a meaningful replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall, hosted by the City of Baldwin Park. This tribute serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by our brave service members. We are grateful to collaborate with the City on significant opportunities for our students and community.
I extend my gratitude to members of our community for their unwavering support and dedication.
Sincerely,
Froilan N. Mendoza, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
BURSCH ELEMENTARY UNVEILS NEW LITTLE FREE LIBRARY
Charles Bursch Elementary unveiled their new Little Free Library on February 7.
The new Little Free Library installed at Bursch Elementary was made possible by The Library Impact Grant in partnership with Feed Hungry Minds. The library welcomes the community to participate in the joy of reading by providing them with the opportunity of taking or leaving a book.
BPHS LAUNCHES BRAVES SPORTS NETWORK “BSPN”
Launched in late December 2023, as an “Activity Class,” BSPN has swiftly expanded into a thriving club, igniting a passion for sports media among students across all grades.
Under the guidance of Baldwin Park High School teacher Joe Laski, BSPN has transcended traditional classroom learning by incorporating creative media skills. With a primary focus on sports media, the class and club aim to equip students with the knowledge needed to excel in various facets of the industry, from elevated journalism to producing media, and managing social media accounts.
FOSTER ELEMENTARY HOSTS “STEAM” FAMILY NIGHT
Foster Elementary School hosted its 8th Annual "Family STEAM Night," a celebration of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics “STEAM,” on February 8.
The event welcomed students from transitional kindergarten through fifth grade, for an evening of creativity and learning alongside their families. Attendees embarked on a journey through various STEAM stations and activities, each designed to engage and inspire educational lessons. From making snow to experimenting with sensory balloons and crafting slime, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
BPUSD HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS CONCLUDE A DRIVEN WINTER SEASON
Baldwin Park High and Sierra Vista High School rounded out a triumphant 2023-24 winter sports season. Highlights include Sierra Vista High School securing League Championships titles across multiple sports, and Baldwin Park High School taking part in exciting symposiums, and CIF qualifications.
BPUSD BOARD OF EDUCATION APPOINTS ANNALYNN C. APOLINARIO
Baldwin Park Unified School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Annalynn C. Apolinario to the governing Board of Education for a provisional term, which began on February 15, 2024.
Annalynn C. Apolinario has been a resident of the City of Baldwin Park for over 45 years. She is a product of the Baldwin Park Unified School District (BPUSD), having attended Tracy Elementary, Sierra Vista Middle, and Sierra Vista High School. She is a dedicated mother of three daughters, and one stepdaughter. Two of her children currently attend BPUSD schools. Apolinario participated in her first regular Board of Education meeting on February 27.
BPUSD EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION NOW ENROLLING
BPUSD ENROLLMENT FOR 2024-25 BEGINS MARCH 11
THINK TOGETHER NOW ENROLLING FOR SPRING CAMP
BPACE OPENS NEW FREE MATH COURSE
BPUSD DISCIPLINA POSITIVA WORKSHOPS IN MARCH
STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT WITH HAZEL HEALTH
THE CITY OF BALDWIN PARK TO HOST VIETNAM MEMORIAL PROGRAM
*Additional details are available on our District website calendar.
| Thursday, March 7 | Disciplina Positiva Parent Workshop |
| Tuesday, March 12 | Regular Meeting of the Board of Education |
| Thursday, March 14 | City of Baldwin Park Vietnam Memorial Wall Program Begins |
| Thursday, March 14 | Positive Discipline Parent Workshop |
| Friday, March 15 | BPUSD Professional Development Day (Student Free Day, No School) |
| Sunday, March 17 | City of Baldwin Park Vietnam Memorial Wall Program’s Closing Day |
| Thursday, March 21 | Positive Discipline Parent Workshop |
| Tuesday, March 26 | Regular Meeting of the Board of Education |
| Thursday, March 28 | Positive Discipline Parent Workshop |
| Friday, March 29 | Cesar Chavez Day (Observed Holiday – No School) |
Superintendent’s March Attachments
Superintendent’s February Message, 2024
Dear Baldwin Park USD Community,
As we dawn a new month, it is a fortifying time for our school community. BPUSD students kicked off the year with refreshed learning opportunities and new avenues for growth.
Highlights of recent activities include Sierra Vista High School’s sophomore field trip to SoFi Stadium as an incentive for staying on track with the A-G college requirements, a Baldwin Park High School Sociology field trip to the Huntington Library Gardens to reflect on sustainability and symbolism, and the Sierra Vista Middle School AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) students touring the UCLA campus. In addition, elementary students in the afterschool Think Together program embarked on new experiences with Cube Club, a new project integrating critical thinking skills for solving a Rubik's cube, and new folklórico dance lessons to expand their knowledge of the arts.
In other news, the Governing Board of Education will hold a Special Board Meeting on Monday, February 5, 2024, to act on the process to fill the vacancy created by the passing of Board Member Deanna C. Robles.
The year began with great promise, and I would like to recognize the BP STEM Academy Robotics Club for winning four awards at the VEX Competition, Sierra Vista High School music students for championing the Baldwin Park Women’s Club Music Scholarship Competition, and Bursch Elementary School for debuting their new Free Little Library this month.
We look forward to seeing the persistence, collaboration, and innovative achievements exhibited by our school community, which continue to drive the District forward.
Sincerely,
Froilan N. Mendoza, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
BP STEM Academy Robotics Win League Tournament Champions Award
Six middle school robotics teams from BP STEM Academy showcased their innovative skills at the 2023-2024 VEX Robotics Competition held at Rio Hondo for the League VRC on Saturday, January 27.
Four teams earned awards and three secured qualifications for the State Championships in San Diego. The awards included two top Tournament Champion Awards, one Excellence Award, and one Think Award.
BPUSD Initiates Mentorship Program with Big Brothers Big Sisters
Students from Tracy Elementary and Sierra Vista High school are coming together through the District’s first mentorship program in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles and The City of Baldwin Park. The program officially launched on Tuesday, January 23.
In the initial phase of the program, 20 students from each school will be matched based on common interests to create meaningful connections and promote educational growth through positive role models. Mentors will offer support, guidance, and encouragement to their mentees, fostering a sense of community and shared achievement.
BPUSD Students Embark on Project SEARCH Internship with Kaiser Permanente
Students from BPUSD’s Adult Transition Program began their Project SEARCH internship with Kaiser Permanente aimed at providing career skills on Tuesday, January 16.
Four students from Baldwin Park are taking part in the first enthusiastic interns’ cohort of the Project SEARCH Kaiser Permanente program. The internship is geared at extending workplace knowledge for adult students, providing a blend of classroom instruction, career exploration, and hands-on training in selected departments.
Sierra Vista Middle School Students Explore UCLA Campus
Sierra Vista Middle School Matadors attended an exclusive AVID college tour of the University of California, Los Angeles on January 30.
More than 80 AVID students embarked on an insightful campus tour of UCLA, accompanied by current university students who shared helpful information and tips. The UCLA tour encompassed valuable information on college opportunities, admissions procedures, and financial aid opportunities.
Walnut Elementary Students Dive into STEM Water on Mars Project
Students in Mr. Rangel’s fifth-grade Dual Language class were tasked with demonstrating the most effective way to filter water from Mars in a unique STEM group project. The assignment mirrored a real-life scenario for students to think, create, and perform as professionals presenting to NASA.
The project incorporated strategic research, analyzing water pumps, solving math problems, crafting a functional water filter, and conducting an in-person presentation to a panel of guest judges.
Baldwin Park High Students Visit the Huntington Library & Botanical Gardens
Students in Baldwin Park High’s Sociology Club and Class attended an impactful field trip to the Huntington Library & Botanical Gardens on January 24.
The trip centered on learning more about symbolism and sustainability. The educational outing began with students enjoying the sights of the Virginia Steele Scott American Galleries and exhibits by Cuban-American physicist and artist Enrique Martinez Celaya. Students also visited the 300-year-old Shoya Japanese House - to explore tools, impact, and innovation used to create sustainable spaces suited to unique environments.
Wellness Room Opens at BP STEM Academy
Students at BP STEM Academy can enjoy a new quiet and creative atmosphere aimed at cultivating a positive space. The newly opened wellness room offers students five different stations with various activities including: an arts station equipped with crafty supplies, a calming corner set up with cozy bean bags and Zen mantras to unwind, a writing area with thoughtful journaling and reflection prompts, a fidget zone with interactive tasks and tools, and lastly, a reading nook with books and a comfortable space.
Sierra Vista Sophomores Enjoy Educational Adventure at SoFi Stadium
One hundred Sophomore students participated in an exclusive field trip to SoFi Stadium, a unique experience that emphasized the importance of meeting college admission requirements.
The field trip was an incentive to encourage students to graduate with the A-G UC/CSU college admission requirements. Another aspect of the trip was to inspire sophomores to dream big and consider diverse career paths, such as architecture, agricultural engineering, sports management, and communications.
*Additional details are available on our District website calendar.
Week Feb 5-9 - - National School Counseling Week
Mon. Feb 5 - Special Meeting of the Board of Education
Tues. Feb 6 - Individualized Education Program Workshop by ESGV SELPA (Special Education Local Plan Area)
Sun. Feb 11 - City of Baldwin Park’s Free Pet Wellness Clinic
Mon. Feb 12 - Lincoln's Birthday Holiday (All Pupils and Staff)
Tues. Feb 13 - Regular Meeting of the Board of Education
Thurs. Feb 15 - Special Meeting of the Board of Education
Sat. Feb 17 - City of Baldwin Park Black History Month Community Celebration
Mon. Feb 19 - Presidents Day (All Pupils and Staff)
Sat. Feb 24 - IEP and 504 Transition Conference by Parents Place
Tues. Feb 27 - Regular Meeting of the Board of Education
Thurs. Feb 29 - BPUSD Positive Discipline Workshop for Parents
Superintendent’s January Message, 2024
As we step into the new year, we're embracing opportunities for growth, learning, and collective accomplishment while staying aligned with our goals. Our commitment remains to ensure high achievement for all learners.
Superintendent of Schools
Superintendent’s End-of-Year Update, 2023
Superintendent’s Message
As the first half of the 2023-24 school year comes to an end, I want to take a moment to thank the Baldwin Park Unified community for supporting our students to ensure they are prepared for the future and ready to achieve their goals.
BPUSD students have access to numerous educational and enrichment opportunities, all made possible by our educators, administrators and staff who work tirelessly to provide unique and engaging experiences through academic activities.
Walnut Elementary’s annual egg launch is one example and something that Walnut fifth-graders look forward to because it allows them to work together and test their engineering and physics knowledge acquired in STEM classes. Unique opportunities like this are made possible by the dedication of Walnut’s administrators and fifth-grade teachers.
This December, I look forward to seeing our students, families and staff at the many holiday performances, festivals and events taking place this month ahead of the winter break.
We know many families plan to travel during the holiday break, but we ask that students attend every day of school before the break to ensure they do not miss out on valuable learning opportunities. As a reminder, the winter break is from Thursday, December 21 to Friday, January 5.
On behalf of the Board of Education, I want to wish every Baldwin Park Unified student, staff and community member a happy and warm holiday season. I look forward to the new year when we can rejoin and continue to work together to ensure high achievement for all learners.
Sincerely,
Froilan N. Mendoza, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
BPUSD Students Gifted Winter Clothes and Toys during Santa Clothes Event
Baldwin Park Unified and the City of Baldwin Park brought some holiday cheer to 400 children with the help of generous donations and volunteers from the community on December 5.
BPUSD students in grades K-12 were selected based on need and matched with a volunteer shopper who used information including their name, grade, clothes, and shoe size, to help them put together a new winter wardrobe using an $80 gift card to Walmart.
BPUSD High School Seniors Receive Early Acceptance to the University of La Verne
Sierra Vista High School sports medicine students attended a Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) college field trip at the University of La Verne, complete with a campus tour and overview on academic programs. The journey wrapped with an exciting twist: over half of the attending students received early college acceptance offers from the university.
The 28 students who attended were part of Sierra Vista High School’s regional occupational program (ROP) sports medicine pathway that provides hands-on guidance and career preparation.
On November 28, 22 seniors from Baldwin Park High School attended a college field trip to ULV and received same day acceptances – making it BPHS’s largest group to receive on-the-spot university admission.
De Anza Elementary Holds Interactive Math Festival
De Anza Elementary School celebrated mathematics with an engaging festival on November 28 that brought together students from transitional kindergarten through fifth grade for a day filled with games and problem-solving activities.
The festival aimed to reinforce fundamental math skills and to encourage teamwork for the upper grades as fourth- and fifth-graders were tasked with helping the younger grades work together during the event.
District Receives 10th Golden Bell Award for CoVitality Mental Health Program
During the annual California School Boards Association (CSBA) education conference, Baldwin Park Unified was recognized with a Golden Bell Award.
This is the District's 10th Golden Bell Award. This year’s award was presented to the District for outstanding student support and success in their implementation of the CoVitality Mental Health program.
Walnut Elementary Fifth-graders Put STEM Knowledge to the Test with Egg Launch
Walnut Elementary School fifth-graders tested their science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) knowledge during the school’s annual egg launch event on November 15.
Every year, students research, craft and test aerodynamic lander prototypes for the 30-foot egg launch. Students are tasked with constructing a design that allows for a safe landing without any damage done to the egg.
To craft their designs, students are supplied with tape and straws and must work together to create an effective prototype using principles of engineering.
BPUSD Celebrates School Psychologist Janni Martinez for Years of Dedication to Students
Baldwin Park Unified recognized National School Psychologist Week with a special staff spotlight for school psychologist Janni Martinez for her 27-year-long service to BPUSD students.
Martinez, a school psychologist at Olive Middle and Sierra Vista High School, started her career in the District working with children at the preschool level.
“I’ve had an incredible experience, I’ve done every type of assignment level there is, and what is really cool is I’ve had the opportunity to see children I’ve met at age three later graduate. The families remember me, and it's a super rewarding situation,” Martinez said.
BPUSD Schools Celebrate Red Ribbon Week
Baldwin Park Unified students across the District celebrated Red Ribbon Week with fun spirit days to raise awareness on the importance of staying substance and alcohol-free.
The theme, “Be Kind to Your Mind,” was highlighted on school spirit days with arts and dress-up activities.
Superintendent’s October Update, 2023
Superintendent’s Message
Across the District, students, teachers, and staff are embracing the autumn season with fall festivities, including Halloween costume parades, trick-or-treat events, and Día de los Muertos celebrations, paying homage to family traditions.
We are proud to share that Baldwin Park Unified earned its 10th Golden Bell Award for the District’s CoVitality program, a model mental health system of support that aims to improve the social-emotional well-being of students in grades four through 12.
In addition, we would like to congratulate the staff and students from De Anza, Charles Bursch, Margaret Heath, Tracy, and Vineland elementary schools, Sierra Vista Middle School, and North Park Continuation High School for being recognized with 2023 PBIS Awards for positive campus culture.
As the District’s School Closures, Consolidation and Revitalization Plan continues to move forward, the Board of Education approved the closure of Central and Margaret Heath elementary schools at the conclusion of the 2023-24 school year.
The decision to close Central and Margaret Heath elementary schools was incredibly difficult, and we understand the unease that our families may be experiencing during this transition. However, we are committed to ensuring our students and staff are supported in every way possible.
For more information on the School Closures, Consolidation and Revitalization Plan, please visit the District’s website and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page.
It is truly a privilege to serve BPUSD students and families. On behalf of the Board of Education, I thank you for your continued support and dedication to Baldwin Park Unified.
I want to wish everyone a safe and festive fall season!
Sincerely,
Froilan N. Mendoza, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
District Orchestra Director Named ASTA 2023 Teacher of the Year
Baldwin Park Unified orchestra director Paul Grant has a special place in his heart for the teachers who brought the joy of music to his life. He credits them for helping mold an energetic and mischievous student into a world-class musician and inspiring him to pursue a career as a music instructor.
For more than 10 years at BPUSD, Grant has channeled his former mentors, ensuring student success through equitable access to instruments and tailoring classroom lessons to ensure key foundational skills are learned each week. For his passion and dedication, Grant was recently named the American String Teachers Association (ASTA), Los Angeles Chapter’s 2023 Outstanding Teacher of the Year.
Grant was also recognized for advocating for the purchase of hundreds of string instruments for the District’s orchestra program and overseeing the replacement of musical instruments and supplies for band and orchestra.
Margaret Heath Elementary students, staff and community members gathered to celebrate the educational pioneer Margaret Heath during the school’s annual Margaret Heath Day on October 6.
For this year’s Margaret Heath Scholarship, Class of 2023 Baldwin Park High School graduate Abigail Gil was selected for the $500 award. Gil, who also graduated from the District’s Dual Language Program, thanked her family, and Margaret Heath staff and teachers in English and Spanish for their support in her education.
Every year, Heath students collect coin donations for the scholarship, which goes to a Margaret Heath alumnus and BPUSD graduate.
BPUSD Mental Health Program Earns District 2023 Golden Bell Award
Baldwin Park Unified’s multi-tiered system of school support for mental health and model CoVitality program was awarded a 2023 Golden Bell Award for outstanding student support.
The CoVitality pilot program was launched in 2018 to address the increasing mental health and social-emotional learning needs among students.
This is the 10th Golden Bell Award the District has received, and BPUSD will be recognized at the 2023 Golden Bell Award Ceremony, hosted at the California School Boards Association education conference on Thursday, November 30 in San Francisco.
Bursch Kindergarteners Showcase their Skills at ABC Fashion Show
Bursch Elementary School kindergarteners displayed their knowledge of the alphabet during the school’s first ABC Fashion Show on October 13.
Students also showed off their creative sides by designing and wearing hand-made costumes to represent their letters.
Baldwin Park High School Community Celebrates Día de los Muertos
Encircled by vibrant marigold cempasúchil flowers and papel picado swaying in the air, the Baldwin Park High School campus came to life with the 12th Annual Día De Los Muertos Celebration, hosted by the Dual Language Program.
The spectacular student-led event was dedicated to honoring the past with a full-of-life celebration welcoming everyone to partake in the holiday festivities.
Families, friends, and community members came together to enjoy live music performances, art displays, diverse food and drinks, and an unforgettable altar competition.
Baldwin Park High School Football Team Wins Crosstown Showdown
Sierra Vista High School’s Jack B. White Stadium was filled with Dons and Braves supporters, dressed in Sierra Vista High School (SVHS) red and black and Baldwin Park High School (BPHS) blue and white, for Baldwin Park Unified’s annual Crosstown Showdown Game on October 20.
The night was packed with energetic performances from both high school’s football, cheer, band, and color guard teams. Baldwin Park Unified students, staff, alumni, city council members, and Mayor of Baldwin Park Emmanuel J. Estrada were in attendance to join in the friendly rivalry.
BPUSD Schools Recognized for Positive Campus Culture
Baldwin Park Unified School District and the Board of Education were proud to honor seven BPUSD schools during a regular Board meeting on October 24 for earning Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS) Awards for creating and nurturing positive campus cultures.
This is the first time a Baldwin Park Unified school has earned a Platinum Award. Two schools also ranked up, with De Anza advancing from Gold to Platinum and North Park moving from Silver to Gold.
Below are the schools that earned Platinum, Gold, and Silver 2022-23 California PBIS Awards:
Platinum
De Anza Elementary School
Gold
Charles Bursch Elementary School
Margaret Heath Elementary School
North Park Continuation High School
Tracy Elementary School
Vineland Elementary School
Silver
Sierra Vista Middle School
“All of our schools worked really hard to restore and strengthen their PBIS systems after last year and the pandemic and it is amazing to see our campus leaders and staff recognized for their work,” BPUSD Director of Student Services Alicia Fields said.
Superintendent’s Back-to-School Update, 2023
Superintendent’s Message
The 2023-24 school year is off to an excellent start, and it has been a privilege to welcome new and returning students to our campuses, supported by our exceptional team of administrators, staff, and educators.
To ensure the school year continues in strong standing, BPUSD provides additional support services and resources through Positive Discipline workshops for parents and the upcoming annual College and Career Fair for all students. We are excited to relaunch the College and Career Fair for the first time since 2019, where students can explore a multitude of academic and professional opportunities.
Over the coming weeks, we expect to receive updates during a regular Board meeting from the Superintendent’s Advisory Committee on School Closures (SACSC) on recommended next steps for the District’s School Closures, Consolidation, and Revitalization plan.
In addition, the District’s Asset Management Advisory Committee is continuing to meet and review possible future uses for the closed sites – which currently consist of Elwin and Pleasant View elementary schools – before providing recommendations to the Board of Education on potential options.
For updated information, please visit the District’s website, social media platforms, and ParentSquare.
On behalf of the Board of Education, we thank each of you for your ongoing support, trust, and dedication to Baldwin Park Unified School District.
Sincerely,
Froilan N. Mendoza, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
From Early Childhood Education to the Baldwin Park Adult and Community Education (BPACE), and from transitional kindergarten to high school, students were met with enhanced academic and enrichment opportunities, as well as bolstered mental health and wellness resources, including onsite wellness rooms, therapists, and guidance counselors.
“We’re ready and we’re excited,” said Patty Cubillo, Interim Vice Principal at Tracy Elementary. “We have a lot of new intervention services and personnel and more opportunities for students who might not be meeting their grade level to achieve, and that’s amazing to see as an administrator here.”
The Attendance Motivation and College Exploration project will focus on high school sophomores who had poor or irregular attendance during their freshman year at Baldwin Park High School, North Park Continuation High School, and Sierra Vista High School.
Funds will also be used to provide incentive field trips at UC and Cal State colleges at the end of the school year so students can discover the different communities and find what each institution has to offer.
Baldwin Park students, families, and community members are invited to explore numerous informational and support services, including college and university recruiters, job opportunities with local businesses, and healthcare resources at mental health agencies.
The workshops are held in Spanish and interpreted into English, with classes running from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Elwin Professional Development Center, located at 13010 Waco St., Baldwin Park.
Additional workshops will be held in the cafeteria of the Elwin Professional Development Center on:
- Thursday, Sept. 14
- Thursday, Sept. 21
- Thursday, Sept. 28
The voluntary plan covers all accidental damage and will protect families in the event that a student’s device is lost or stolen. Device insurance does not cover the student’s charger or the case.
Parents are encouraged to purchase the insurance, but it is optional. For one payment of $32 for the school year, families can file a claim with no deductibles, added fees, or claim limits.
All that is required is for parents to register their devices and pay for the insurance. To register, families will need an email address, student ID number, and serial number of the Chromebook they want to insure.
For any questions, please call 800.955.4623.
Open enrollment for the optional device insurance ends on Tuesday, Oct. 31.
Reminder for Confidential Family Income Survey
To fill out the application, please click this link. Paper applications also are available in the front offices of all schools.
Additional reasons to complete the survey include:
- To ensure Baldwin Park Unified schools receive the necessary funding to continue providing a high-quality education for all students.
- To support BPUSD’s school meals program.
- To secure funding for internet access and computers.
- Completing this form may help provide families with money for groceries through P-EBT.
- If households qualify, students can receive discounts for SAT, ACT, and AP testing, as well as college application fees.
- If households qualify, student-athletes may receive discounts for fees associated with participating in BPUSD athletics.
Superintendent's Update, May/June 2023
Superintendent's Update, March 2023
Superintendent's Update, Welcome Back 2022
