Independent assessments have confirmed we are on our way to achieving this lofty goal.
The 2008 implementation of the K-12 International Baccalaureate program changed the way our students are taught. I.B. is not a new set of books but a collaborative teaching model based on the concept of “inquiry-minded” learning. A first in school history, all teachers are using the same teaching concepts. Our goal is to develop lifelong learners, not students who can regurgitate facts with no depth of knowledge. The I.B. philosophy spills into every classroom, even PE. With I.B. in its infancy, we continually work together to fix glitches as we implement the program.
I.B. is currently piloting an I.B. Career-Related Certificate which incorporates the educational principles, vision and learner profile of I.B. into vocational programs and specifically addresses the needs of students engaged in career-related education.
We must prepare students for their future, not our past. In doing so, we have improved vocational offerings (Career Tech) to include Web Development, Graphic Design & Digital Publishing; Video Production, Development & Broadcasting; Food Science & Culinary Arts; Floral Design and Production; Ag Mechanics/ Structures (woodshop, electrical, welding, masonry, metalwork, construction); Viticulture; Winemaking; Public Speaking; Photography.
Our commitment to hiring the best and brightest has served us well. School-wide test scores are the highest in history. The English Language Learner gap has closed to 100 points. Our 2009 Valedictorian was an ESL student and now attends Stanford. Resource classes at all schools ensure that “No Child is Left Behind.” We are succeeding.
An independent assessment of our Special Ed program by the former State Director of Special Ed applauded St. Helena for its richly staffed department and excellent program. She stated, “We are one of the best, if not the best in California.”
Thanks to the generosity of community members and state grants, we’ve added $22 million in new facilities, including the new high school multi-purpose facility/gym, and are completing the Performing Arts classroom. The $4 million Ag grant is pending. If we match the grant, we will build an Ag Barn, Culinary Center, classrooms, labs and updated wood/metal shop.
Our basic-aid status continues to provide us with the resources to offer a “world class” education. An historically high reserve of 5 percent, conservative fiscal planning, coupled with huge cost savings from retirement incentives, keep us financially strong.
A long-term solution to the Howell Mountain/Pope Valley tax issue is imperative. Future development in the rural areas with no student funding could devastate our district.
Change is difficult. Raising standards has ruffled some feathers, but we owe it to our children. By any measure, our students are attending college, joining the military and entering the work force better prepared than most California students. Thanks to all who’ve made it possible.
