Superintendent's Updates
Superintendent's August 2024 Update
Dear Baldwin Park Unified Community,
It is with great excitement and anticipation that I welcome you to the 2024-2025 school year! Whether you are returning to our schools or joining us for the first time, I am thrilled to have you as part of our vibrant and dynamic educational community.
Over the summer, our dedicated team has been hard at work preparing our schools and classrooms to provide the best possible learning environment for all our students. From updating facilities and integrating new technology to expanding learning opportunities, we are committed to ensuring that every student has a learning environment to achieve and succeed.
This year, we will continue to focus on our core mission to ensure high achievement for all learners leading to success in college, career, and life. We believe in the potential of every student, and we are dedicated to supporting their academic growth, social-emotional development, and overall well-being. This mission is further strengthened with our re-commitment to our District and Board priorities: Student Achievement, Support Services, Community Engagement, and Fiscal Prudence.
We know that the foundation of a strong school community is built on collaboration, respect, and shared goals. By working together—students, parents, teachers, staff, and the community—we can create an inclusive, supportive, and engaging environment where everyone can achieve their best.
I encourage parents to stay involved in your child's education and to communicate regularly with teachers and school staff. Your partnership is invaluable, and together, we can make a significant impact on your child's learning and development.
To our students, I want you to know that your dreams, ambitions, and hard work inspire us every day. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your successes, and know that we are here to support you every step of the way.
To our teachers and staff, thank you for your unwavering dedication and passion for education. Your commitment to our students' success is the cornerstone of our schools, and I am grateful for everything you do.
As we embark on this new school year, let us remember that our collective efforts, resilience, and positivity will drive us forward. I look forward to the achievements, discoveries, and growth that this year will bring.
Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year! Let's make it a year of learning, growth, and success—together.
Sincerely,
Froilan N. Mendoza, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Board Meeting agendas and additional information is available at: BPUSD Board Meetings
Recap of the Board of Education Meeting held on Tuesday, August 13, 2024
Spotlights
2024 NextGen Youth Workforce Education Technology Interns
Baldwin Park Unified partnered with local organizations for the third year of the NextGen Youth Workforce Program, offering job preparation for students and residents aged 14-24. This summer, three BPUSD students gained hands-on experience in the District’s Educational Technology and Support (ETS) Department, focusing on information technology and artificial intelligence (AI). Their work included real-world projects, shadowing ETS engineers, and contributing to the District’s AI Committee. We commend these students for their dedication: Andrew Delgado, Sierra Vista High School, Riley Abadines, Baldwin Park High School, and Madelina Jacobs, North Park Continuation High School
Introduction of New Administrators:
Norma L. Verdugo, Coordinator of Student Achievement
Shelley Aguilar, Assistant Principal of Sierra Vista High School
Travis Nelson, Assistant Principal of BP STEM Academy
Dr. Christine R. Heinrichs, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, introduced the above administrators beginning in the 2024-2025 school year.
Presentation by the District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC)
Baldwin Park Unified educates nearly 1,376 English Learner (EL) students and monitors 405 reclassified students. To support these students, the District has formed a District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC). This committee advised the Board of Education on key tasks, including developing a District Master Plan for EL programs, conducting a District-wide needs assessment, setting goals for EL programs, and reviewing reclassification procedures.
Action Items
Approval of the 2024-2025 School Plans for Student Achievement
The Board of Education approved the School Plan for Student Achievement (SPSA) for all schools receiving funds through the Consolidated Application (ConApp). The SPSA aligns with school goals for improving student achievement and includes a comprehensive budget. These plans, reviewed and recommended by School Site Councils, consolidate the planning of all programs funded through the ConApp.
Adoption of the Revisions to Board Policy 6163.4 Student Use of Technology, Students
The Board of Education approved revisions to Board Policy 6163.4, Student Use of Technology. These updates align the policy with current laws, streamline processes, remove outdated references, and reflect current District practices. The revisions, based on recommendations from the California School Boards Association (CSBA), include updated terminology, changes to the Acceptable Use Agreement (AUA), references to social media guidelines, and guidelines for proper use of BPUSD logos and branding.
Establishment of Board Policy and Administrative Regulation 1114, District Sponsored Social Media, Community Relations
The Board of Education approved the establishment of Board Policy and Administrative Regulation 1114, District-Sponsored Social Media. This policy aligns with current laws, creates a consistent process, and reflects current District practices. Based on recommendations from the California School Boards Association (CSBA), the policy provides guidelines for proper social media use, content management, and outlines disciplinary consequences.
Establishment of Board Policy 5131.8 Mobile Communication Devices, Students
The Board of Education has approved the establishment of Board Policy 5131.8, Mobile Communication Devices. This new policy aligns with current laws, including AB 272, which allows the District to limit or prohibit student smartphone use at school under specific circumstances. It also outlines guidelines for searching students' devices, confiscating them when necessary, and disciplining off-campus use that poses a threat or disrupts school activities. The policy is based on recommendations from the California School Boards Association (CSBA).
Adoption of the Revisions to Board Policy and Administrative Regulation 5145.12, Search and Seizure, Students
The Board of Education approved revisions to Board Policy and Administrative Regulation 5145.12, Search and Seizure. These updates align the policy with current laws, remove outdated references, and reflect District practices. The revisions, based on California School Boards Association (CSBA) recommendations, include updates reflecting court decisions on searches without individualized suspicion, restrictions on searching electronic devices, locker searches, and random weapons screening with handheld metal detectors.
SCHOOL STARTS AUGUST 15
The first day of the 2024-25 school year is Thursday, August 15th.
Let's make this year one to remember!
BPUSD 2023-24 COMMUNITY REPORT NOW AVAILABLE
We invite you to take a moment to explore the report and join us in celebrating the achievements of our students, staff, and community. Your continued support and engagement are what help make these successes possible.
View the Community Report here: Community Reports or at https://www.bpusd.net/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1497845&type=d&pREC_ID=1641280.
E-SPORTS PROGRAM COMING TO BPUSD
The District is gearing up for the launch of a new E-Sports program coming in the fall of 2024. The pilot program will debut at Jones Middle School, marking the District’s first venture into the rapidly growing field of electronic sports as an extracurricular activity.
VISIT THE NEW EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION WEBSITE
The Baldwin Park Unified School District has launched a dedicated platform for all Early Childhood Education programs and opportunities available to young learners.
The new ECE website serves as a comprehensive resource for parents and community members, providing centralized information to enhance understanding and engagement with our preschool offerings. Visit the new site today to explore everything it has to offer!
Early Childhood Education website: ece.bpusd.net
ALTERNATIVE INCOME FORMS NOW OPEN
Complete a form today at: https://bpusd.rocketscanapps.com/
OPTIONAL STUDENT DEVICE INSURANCE
Please visit https://www.bpusd.net/apps/pages/deviceinsurance for more information or fill out an application attached
BPUSD EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION NOW ENROLLING
BEFORE-AND AFTER-SCHOOL NOW ENROLLING FOR
BALDWIN PARK ADULT AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION NOW ENROLLING
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BPUSD NOW HIRING
BPUSD is Hiring! Apply now by visiting Edjoin.org/bpusd
STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT WITH HAZEL HEALTH
PUBLIC NOTICE
Please visit https://www.bpusd.net/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=4379656&type=d&pREC_ID=2584125 for more information
*Additional details are available on our District website calendar.
Stay connected for the latest Baldwin Park Unified news and announcements:
Visit our District Website:
Follow us on our official social media pages:
Parents, sign up for ParentSquare:
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August Attachments
Superintendent's Message, End of 2023-24 School Year
Dear Baldwin Park USD Community,
As the school year ends, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for our collective successes. Together, we have navigated a year of remarkable achievements, staying true to our goals centered around student achievement, support services, community engagement, and fiscal solvency.
Student Achievement - Our students have continued to excel, improving in English Language Arts proficiency and exploring new opportunities in the visual and performing arts. Through various extracurricular avenues, we continued to prepare our students for college and career readiness, ensuring they have a robust foundation for their futures.
Support Services - This year saw the expansion of our Think Together before-school and after-school programs, and the establishment of new mental health partnerships providing essential resources to our families. Additionally, we launched Community Schools initiatives at our high schools, further supporting the diverse needs of our students.
Community Engagement - Our commitment to community engagement has been evident through consistent communication, increased school events, and collaborative volunteering opportunities. We are proud to have partnered with esteemed organizations such as the City of Baldwin Park, the Valley County Water District, Kaiser Permanente, and the Baldwin Park Woman’s Club, among many others who created educational opportunities for our students to get involved locally.
Fiscal Solvency - Maintaining fiscal responsibility amidst statewide budget concerns has not been easy, but we have steered our District towards a path that prioritizes our students. We have strategically applied for grants and meticulously evaluated where our spending and investments are made to ensure long-term financial health. While the decision to close Margaret Heath and Central elementary schools was difficult, the resilience and support across our District have been remarkable. Thank you to the staff and families of these schools; your impact will live on for generations to come.
On behalf of the Board of Education, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to all students for successfully completing this school year, particularly those who will be advancing to the next level, and our 2024 graduates for their outstanding achievements. We could not have achieved this without the support and collaboration of our families, who provide students with a holistic educational support system. To our staff, thank you for your dedication and hard work this year. I am proud to be among such talented and committed individuals. I would like to express gratitude to our local partners for their unwavering support and collaboration, which provided invaluable opportunities for our students.
We want to inform families about the different summer opportunities available. Our Think Together program will continue to offer enriching activities for elementary and middle school students. We will also provide free summer meals to ensure our students have access to nutritious food. Additionally, free telehealth services are available through Hazel Health to support our students’ needs.
As we look forward to the upcoming school year, there are many exciting innovative programs and opportunities on the horizon. Our administrative teams will be hard at work preparing for another successful year. We continue to strive for improvement and encourage our community to provide feedback by responding to a short communications survey linked below.
Wishing everyone a safe and healthy summer.
Sincerely,
Froilan N. Mendoza, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
SENIORS INSPIRE ELEMENTARY STUDENTS WITH ANNUAL VICTORY WALK
In a heartwarming tradition, hundreds of graduating seniors from Baldwin Park and Sierra Vista High School returned to their roots to participate in a celebratory walk through their elementary schools. Seniors, dressed in their caps and gowns, walked through the familiar corridors to find kindergarten through fifth-grade students lining the hallways with cheerful signs, eagerly awaiting their arrival.
COMMUNITY GATHERS TO HONOR MARGARET HEATH ELEMENTARY
Margaret Heath Elementary School hosted a heartfelt farewell celebration on Wednesday, May 22nd, honoring its rich legacy in the community. The event, organized in partnership by the Baldwin Park Unified School District and Margaret Heath Elementary School staff, welcomed families, students, staff, alumni, and community members for a farewell gathering.
Margaret Heath, who was a remarkable pioneer and a devoted teacher in the District since 1906, was appointed as the school’s principal. Upon Mrs. Heath's retirement in 1930, the school was officially named in her honor.
CENTRAL ELEMENTARY CELEBRATED WITH LIVELY COMMUNITY EVENT
Central Elementary School hosted a lively celebration on Wednesday, May 29th, honoring its enduring legacy that started in 1882. The event, organized in partnership by the School District and Central School staff, welcomed families, students, staff, alumni, and community members.
The event paid a touching homage to Central Elementary School's vital role in the community, evolving from a historic schoolhouse into today's Baldwin Park Arts and Recreation Center, symbolizing the enduring legacy of our city's educational commitment.
MESSAGE TO THE COMMUNITY ON SCHOOL CLOSURE UPDATE
Since our last School Closures, Consolidation, and Revitalization Plan update, our school staff and District administrators have been working diligently to ensure a smooth transition ahead of the Central and Margaret Heath elementary school closures. I am writing to share the progress we have made and to inform you of the next steps as we move forward.
Currently, no discussions on future school closures are taking place, as we focus our efforts on the transitions for this year. The District will be sure to communicate any future news regarding public meetings on school closures, but none are planned at this time.
FEMINEERS CLUB HOSTS SHOWCASE AT BP STEM ACADEMY
The BP STEM Academy Femineers Club hosted a vibrant showcase on Tuesday, May 28. Over 10 teams of students showcased their latest creations, including projects in creative robotics, wearable technology, and other tech innovations. Students demonstrated their ability to circuit, code, and solder designs, implementing robotics movement, motion detection sensors, and lights. The showcased art pieces featured themes from pop culture, including Batman, Disneyland, light-up Hello Kitty purses and bags, and Mario Kart race car tracks.
BALDWIN PARK ADULT TRANSITION PROGRAM CELEBRATES 2023-24 GRADUATES
On Tuesday, June 4th, the Baldwin Park Adult Transition program celebrated the completion of its 2023-24 cohort at a heartfelt event held at the BPACE Performing Arts Center. The ceremony honored six students who have successfully navigated the program's rigorous focus on daily living skills, increasing self-reliance, community access, career exploration, socialization, and practical skills. The event was hosted by Abraham Ortega, the program's dedicated Job Developer, who ensured the proceedings were both smooth and memorable. Certificates were presented to the students, acknowledging their hard work and achievements throughout the program.
SIERRA VISTA SENIOR AWARDED PRESTIGIOUS DELL SCHOLARSHIP
Vanessa Quintana-Jurado, a graduating senior from Sierra Vista High School, has been named the recipient of the 2024 Susan and Michael Dell Scholarship. This prestigious award marks the seventh consecutive year an AVID senior from SVHS has received this honor.
Quintana-Jurado, has been recognized for her academic achievements and commitment to her education with a $20,000 scholarship. In addition to the financial support, the scholarship provides a comprehensive package of resources to ensure her success in college. These include a laptop with a 4-year warranty, up to $2,000 in textbook credits, and personalized support services designed to address academic, financial, and emotional challenges.
GATE SHOWCASES HIGHLIGHT STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS
This year’s GATE showcases celebrated the accomplishments of elementary and middle school students in the District's Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program. The elementary event on May 23rd, themed "Natural Wonders and Disasters," awarded 139 students, featuring projects like "Tornado Adventure" by Adam Sanchez. The middle school event on May 9th focused on "Creating Themed Websites," recognizing 58 individual and 8 school awards, with Olive Middle School's "An Exploration of Food" winning 1st place overall.
BPACE CELEBRATES GRADUATES AT 2024 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY
Baldwin Park Adult and Community Education (BPACE) celebrated the achievements of 250 students during its 2024 graduation ceremony held outdoors at the BPACE campus. The event, which took place on Tuesday, marked the culmination of the 2023-24 school year and honored students who earned certificates in Career and Technical Education (CTE), high school diplomas, or General Education Development (GED) certificates.
SVHS STUDENTS WIN CTA AWARDS FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE ESSAYS
Three students from Sierra Vista High School have been honored with the CTA César E. Chávez and Dolores Huerta Education Scholarship Essay Awards.
Sierra Vista High School students Naim Juarez, Jinhui Liu, and Cristian Paredes were recognized for their outstanding essays on social justice, embodying the principles of the legendary civil rights leaders. The California Teachers Association (CTA) awards, announced on May 6, 2024, celebrate students who demonstrate an understanding of the vision and guiding principles embraced by César E. Chávez and Dolores Huerta. The award criteria included principles of nonviolence, social justice for farmworkers, human and civil rights issues, and more.
BPHS SENIOR AWARDED QUESTBRIDGE SCHOLARSHIP FOR STANFORD
Bryann N. Revilla, a graduating senior at Baldwin Park High School, has been awarded the highly selective QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship and will attend Stanford University as a QuestBridge Scholar this fall. As a first-generation college student, Revilla’s academic journey is marked by numerous accolades and achievements.
Revilla has excelled academically as an Honors, AP, and Dual Enrollment student, earning the title of AP Scholar with Honor. In addition to her classroom successes, she has been an integral part of the Baldwin Park High School band for four years, serving as a section leader and achieving superior ratings and rankings at various festivals and tournaments.
NORTH PARK CONTINUATION CELEBRATES 2024 GRADUATING CLASS
North Park Continuation High School celebrated its graduating class in a special ceremony last night, honoring over 150 students who have successfully completed their high school education. The event, attended by over 300 guests including families, teachers, and community members, was a testament to the students' hard work and resilience.
BPHS SENIOR EARNS GATES SCHOLARSHIP AND COMMITS TO USC
Gustavo Trujillo, Jr., a graduating senior at Baldwin Park High School, has garnered multiple accolades for his academic and extracurricular achievements. Trujillo has been awarded numerous scholarships, including The Gates Scholarship which covers up to $500,000, Ramona Burnham Scholarship, Margaret Heath Scholarship, Valley County Water District Scholarship, Oscar E. Gomez LUCHA Memorial Scholarship, Baldwin Park Education Association (BPEA) Scholarship, Woman's Club Cruz Baca Scholarship, and Waste Management Scholarship. Additionally, Trujillo secured a Waste Management Summer Internship.
Trujillo has chosen to attend the University of Southern California (USC) on a full-ride scholarship to study Business Administration with a focus on AI and Political Science.
BPHS VALEDICTORIAN TO ATTEND UC BERKELEY
Jose Bustamante, a graduating senior at Baldwin Park High School, has achieved a remarkable array of accomplishments, earning the title of 2024 Valedictorian. Graduating with a GPA of 4.797, Bustamante has been recognized for his academic excellence and leadership skills.
This fall, Bustamante will attend the University of California, Berkeley. As a first-generation college student, he has also been awarded a local scholarship to support his studies. His academic journey includes acceptance to several highly selective and prestigious schools.
BPUSD COMMUNICATION SURVEY
As we end the school year, we would like to take a moment to gather input from our school community regarding BPUSD's communication efforts for this year. Your feedback is greatly valued, and we hope you can please take a few minutes to complete the survey below. Responses will be confidential and used to enhance our public information strategies. Thank you for all your collaboration and partnership.
or follow this link: https://forms.gle/7RSF5PPqRp5nz5qr6
BPUSD SUMMER RESOURCES
BPUSD EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION NOW ENROLLING
THINK TOGETHER NOW ENROLLING FOR SUMMER PROGRAM
STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT WITH HAZEL HEALTH
PUBLIC NOTICE
Local Control and Accountability Plan and Budget for Fiscal Year 2024-2025
CITY WELLNESS WALK BLAST
BPUSD TO OFFER FREE SUMMER MEALS
*Additional details are available on our District website calendar.
Stay connected for the latest Baldwin Park Unified news and announcements:
Visit our District Website:
Follow us on our official social media pages:
Parents, sign up for ParentSquare:
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End of 2023-24 School Year Attachments