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Capacity crowd celebrates Lincoln Alternative High School graduation
Parents and family members packed the Lincoln Alternative High School gym to capacity Thursday night to celebrate the annual graduation ceremony. One-by-one Lincoln staff members introduced the graduates and told brief stories of their personal journeys to earning high school diplomas. Graduates presented roses to parents, staff and others who helped them along the way. Principal Jim Sporleder wished all the graduates well and thanked them for their hard work and determination to get an education.
Lincoln Class of 2009 graduates:
Jeremy Barnett
Trace Bronkhorst
Amanda Collins
Ericka Day
Bobbie Doll
Marcus East
Cody Farrens
Emma Hager
Marisela Lara
Julie LeBlanc
Tabitha Lee
Kailynn Leonetti
Dominic Maldonado
Kayla McKinzy
Stephanie Nave Cook
Mary Peery
Cody Person
Alicia Rios
Ricardo Rodriguez
Lizbeth Romero
Samantha Russell
Garrick Samson
Brad Spurlock
Kevin Thornton
Edgar Torres
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Stimulus funding used to offset state deficit
Chief Financial Officer Pat Johnston and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Linda Boggs reported to school board members Tuesday night on a seminar they recently attended in Spokane to learn more about the federal funding associated with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act - or stimulus package.
According to Johnston, the state is using much of the stimulus funding to offset state funding shortfalls. Federal stimulus dollars are being used to backfill state apportionment funding for local school districts this school year. These state funds originally targeted for apportionment are now being used to draw down the state deficit.
Apportionment formulas are based on student enrollment. Johnston stressed this is not “new money,” simply a different funding source for the money due to the school district based on this year’s student count. She also reported the district will receive $1,427,978 for IDEA (Special Education) and $474,388 for Title One programs serving students living in poverty. Both are based on a two-year allocation and cannot be applied toward the general fund for basic education programs or staff.
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End of Year ceremonies scheduled (remaining)
Walla Walla High School Commencement
Friday June 5 - 7:30 p.m.
Walla Walla High School grounds (near Commons)
Edison Farewell Party - Tuesday, June 9
3 to 5 p.m. (Tours of original Edison)
7 to 8 p.m. (Farewell Program)
Garrison Middle School 8th Grade Recognition
Wednesday, June 10 - 7 p.m.
Cordiner Hall (Whitman College)
Pioneer Middle School 8th Grade Recognition
Thursday, June 11 - 7 p.m.
Wa-Hi Large Gym
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District names Graduates of Distinction
Walla Walla Public Schools named this year’s honorees for the Graduates of Distinction program during the Tuesday, June 2 school board meeting.
• R.F. “Dick” Monahan - Class of 1958
- Walla Walla Attorney and Vice President of the American Quarter Horse Association
Inspirational Staff: Felix Fletcher, P.E. Teacher and Football Coach (deceased)
• Daniel DeSiga - Class of 1967
Artist and Muralist currently based in Yakima, Washington
Inspirational Staff: Ed Moser, Wa-Hi Art Teacher (deceased)
• Greg Ralston Pepin - Class of 1968
President of Boeing, Turkey and Vice President of Boeing International
Inspirational Staff: James “Jim” Chubb, Teacher and Principal at both Pioneer and Garrison Middle Schools
• Dr. Philip Phillips - Class of 1975
Researcher and Professor of Physics at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champagne
Inspirational Staff: Duane Kusler, Wa-Hi English Teacher (deceased)
Selection Committee
Joanne Martin, Chair
Wilber Pribilsky
Anne Golden
Ned Shafer
Art Griff
Abe Roberts
2008 Graduates of Distinction
Claro Bergevin
Class of 1941
John “Jack” Pelo
Class of 1974
Gretchen Miller Kafoury
Class of 1959
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Personnel Report (from 6/2/09 school board meeting)
• New Hires
(Classified)
Danielle Alaniz, Sign Language Interpreter, Wa-Hi
Jennifer Avina, Birth-to-Three Para-Educator, Blue Ridge
Janice Baker, Intensive Reading Para-Educator, Special Programs
Brianna Candler, Sign Language Interpreter, Wa-Hi
Nicole Miller, Behavior Program Intervention Specialist, Special Programs
Samantha Morales, Secretary to the Director, Head Start/ECEAP, Blue Ridge
Holly Weisner, Assistant Secretary, Head Start/ECEAP, Blue Ridge
• Resignations/retirements
(Certificated)
Celia Boyd, Special Education, Blue Ridge, 2 years
NOTE: Nora Carillo will transfer to Edison as Assistant Secretary for the 2009-2010 school year. She has been working at Blue Ridge as the Parent Involvement Coordinator for Head Start/ECEAP.
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Winston verbally commits to play basketball at University of Idaho
Walla Walla High School junior guard Gary Winston verbally committed to accept a scholarship to the University of Idaho to play basketball beginning in 2010. Winston, 6’1 and 185 lbs, is a two-time all league selection and the Cascade Division Defensive Player of the Year. He also earned Honorable Mention All-State status last season after leading the Blue Devils to the Big 9 District title and a berth in the State 4A Basketball Tournament.
“Gary is a leader on the court and in classroom,” Walla Walla High School Head Basketball Coach John Golden said. “An opportunity to play Division I basketball will open many doors for Gary during his playing career and for his life after basketball. We are excited for Gary and his family and will do whatever we can to support him.”
Winston weighed scholarship offers from the University of Montana, Portland State University, Eastern Washington University, and as well as interest from Gonzaga University. Gary will sign an official letter-of-intent in November.
“I’m excited to be a Vandal and will work hard to fit in and make this program better,” Winston said. “I want to thank all my coaches and teammates at Walla Walla High School for helping me realize my dream of playing college basketball.”
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Retired educators donate paper to schools
During Tuesday night’s school board meeting, Walla Walla/Columbia Retired Educators Association President Harriet Michael and School Board President Mary Jo Geidl, who is also a retired educator, presented Superintendent Rich Carter with a donation of three boxes of paper.
“Retired educators used so much paper during our careers, it was the least we could do to donate some back to the school district,” Geidl said.
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Camp Shakespeare planned for August -- Shakespeare and Mo’
- Classical, Contemporary scene work
- Old School methods, New school methods, Learn the Ways of the Force, Kittens, Free Puppies, Destroy the One ring.
Instructors: Brian Senter, Kevin Loomer
Guest Artist: Paul Morgan Stetler
August 3 - August 8
To register call Brian Senter at 509-540-6619 or email www.bsenter@wwps.org
Study plays, including: The Tempest, The Taming of the Shrew, Romeo & Juliet, and The Merry Wives of Windsor
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Garrison Middle School student misses bid for Guinness world record
Today Garrison Middle School 7th grade student Joseph McMahan missed his bid to set a Guinness world record for eating the most M&M candies with chopsticks in one minute. The current record is 38. McMahan attempted 40. He says he will practice more during the summer and try it again next fall.
Explorer teacher Beth Clearman and his classmates helped McMahan during his attempt. They contacted Guinness and submitted an application form. Walla Walla Union Bulletin Journalist Maria Gonzalez and Communications Director Mark Higgins served as the required witnesses. Students helped time the event and provided a lot of encouragement. McMahan had been practicing for six weeks.
“I think it’s really cool that Joseph attempted this record,” Clearman said. “He is intelligent and has amazing hand-eye coordination.”
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Walla Walla Students receive “Learning For Life” Awards
Sixteen Walla Walla High School students were recently recognized at the district office school board room for their exceptional dedication to the community and for their personal achievements over the past few years.
The awards, sponsored by the Learning for Life program in partnership with the Walla Walla High School Latino Club and Exploring Post 311 were presented to these students for their efforts in their community. The Learning for Life Program, which is a subsidiary program of the Blue Mountain Council of the Boy Scouts of America, sponsored the awards. The awards recognize substantial achievement by youth who are active in their community and who demonstrate citizenship and leadership. Local Scout Executive Dave Rudie helped make the presentation of these awards on behalf of the Blue Mountain Council.
Eight students and one adult received the “Learning for Life Leadership Award,” which is a distinguished award for those who have provided exceptional leadership. Awardees have demonstrated exceptional dedication and given their time to make the program a success.
• Cristina Torres, a junior at Walla Walla High School, has been a steady example of participation in her community. She was a member of the leadership team for the Estrellita Pre-School program at Garrison Night School She is the daughter of Javier and Caritina Torres.
• Jacqueline Alonso is a senior at Walla Walla High School. She is the Walla Walla High School ASB Treasurer for 2008-2009. Jacky plans on attending Eastern Washington University next fall. She is the daughter of Jesus and Guadalupe Alonso.
• Claudia Vargas, a senior at Walla Walla High School, is currently the WA-HI Dance Team co-captain. She plans on attending Columbia University next fall. Claudia is the daughter of Odilón Vargas and Ines Arenas.
• Alex Ramos is a sophomore at Walla Walla High School. He is the current Latino Club President and has made a significant difference in establishing a positive presence of the Latino Community at Walla Walla High School. He is the son of Pedro and Antonia Ramos.
• Olivia Arevalo, a junior at Walla Walla High School, was the Team Program Leader for the Estrellita Preschool program at Garrison Night School this year. Olivia also is active in Project Active Helper, a special education physical fitness program for medically fragile children. She is the daughter of Jose Alejandre and Cindy Mercado.
• Jennifer Lopéz is a senior at Walla Walla High School. Her activities include Varsity Girls Tennis Team and team captain at Science Bowl. She recently received an appointment in the summer student program with Bonneville Power Administration and will be attending Whitman College this fall. She is the daughter of Macabeo and Ema López.
• Irene Ureño is a junior at Walla Walla High School and captain of one of the Bonneville Power Science Bowl teams. She served as boy’s soccer manager for three years. After graduation she is planning on attending Eastern Washington University. She is the daughter of Hector and Lupe Ureño.
• Karina Torres, a junior at Walla Walla High School, is active in Latino Club. Katrina was a member of the leadership team for the Estrellita Preschool program at Garrison Night School. She is the daughter of Javier and Cartina Torres.
• Refugio Reyes has been the Walla Walla Latino Club advisor for almost two years. He has been a significant factor in the growth of both programs. Refugio became a Naturalized U.S. Citizen in November 2008.
Two students received the “Young American Award,” which is given to students who have achieved excellence in the fields of art, athletics, business, education, government, humanities, literature, music, math, religion, science, or service and have been involved in service to their community that adds to the quality of life.
• Lizbette Morín is a senior at Walla Walla High School. She is active in several organizations at Wa-Hi such as Latino Club, French Club, and National Honor Society, and is recognized among her peers as a leader. She plans on attending the University of Idaho this fall. She is the daughter of Adan and Ruth Morín.
• Amelia Marrero is a senior at Walla Walla High School. She is the 2008-2009 Co-Captain of the Walla Walla High School Dance Team. In 2008, she was the Walla Walla High School Dance Team’s most inspirational dancer. When her dad was diagnosed with stage four cancer, she fulfilled her role as captain and never let the team doubt her ability to stand strong in the face of adversity. Her view of life has inspired those around her. She is the daughter of Ray and Kim Marrero.
Ten students were recognized with the The Latino Club Team Award for their efforts in implementing The Estrellita Program, funded by a grant from the Walla Walla United Way to implement a literacy program for pre-school children whose parents attend the Garrison Night School Program. Club members provided over 400 hours of community service. The effort is in partnership with the Walla Walla School District and Walla Walla Community College. The Estrellita Team members include:
- Olivia Arevalo
- Marissa Castillo
- Arón Castro
- Marlenne Fernández
- Sergio Galván
- Bahiyyih Parrish
- Yvonne Segovia
- Cristina Torres
- José Torres
- Karina Torres
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District staff receive scholarships from American Association of University Women
Three of the eight American Association of University Women scholarship winners have district ties. Scholarships were presented at the group’s annual membership meeting held at the Enology Center at Walla Walla Community College, May 13.
“We think they are outstanding recipients of our program to help women return to school and complete their education, and we congratulate them,” said Alice MacDonald.
- Jillian DeBritz, the Wa-Hi ASB activities co-ordinator, received a $1000 to pursue her Master’s in Leadership and Administration at Gonzaga University.
- Sarah Paul, (daughter of Mark Paul - Prospect Point teacher) received a $1000 to attend Louisiana Tech to earn a degree in chemical engineering.
- Lorena Rios, an in-class tutor in the Gear-up program at Garrison, received $500 to complete her Education degree.
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Retirement Celebrations - 2008-2009 (remaining celebrations)
District Office
Laura Droke
Wednesday, June 10
3:30 to 5:00 p.m.
Board Room (364 S. Park St.)
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Sharpstein Elementary plans Art Auction - Discover, Imagine, Create
Come view and purchase Sharpstein students’ art creations. This event is sponsored by the Sharpstein PTA.
- “Evening of the Arts”
- Wednesday June 10
- 7 p.m.
- Sharpstein School (410 Howard St.)
Call Sharpstein Secretary Barbara Brown for more information: 509.527.3098
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Blue Devil Athletic Development (BDAD) registrations accepted
Program Goal: Improve Overall Athletic Ability for All Sports
• For Boys and Girls Grades 6-12
• June 30 to August 7 (Monday - Thursday)
Daily Schedule
Session 1: 8:00 - 9:00 a.m.
• Incoming 9th-12th grade students
Session 2: 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
• Incoming 6th-8th grade students
Session 3: 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
• Incoming 9th-12th grade students
Instructors: Eric Hisaw, Amy Hisaw, Ryan Carter
Location: Wa-Hi Weight Room
Cost: $30 pre-registered and $35 at the door
Note: Students will need a medical release and a parent permission form. Both forms are available at the Wa-Hi Athletic Office, or at the gym during the program. (PHYSICALS ARE NOT REQUIRED)
Payment:
Make checks payable to Wa-Hi Athletics
Mail to: Wa-Hi Athletics, c/o Eric Hisaw - 800 Abbott Rd, Walla Walla, WA 99362
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Public invited to Edison Elementary Farewell Celebration
Edison Elementary staff and students invite the community to join them in celebrating the end of an era during a farewell ceremony at the 73-year-old school, Tuesday, June 9. Celebrate Edison’s vast traditions and historical significance by honoring past and present students and staff. The new Edison Elementary is under construction and scheduled to open Fall 2009.
Date: Tuesday, June 9
School Tours of original building - 3 to 5 p.m.
- Former administrators and staff, alumni and current students will escort guests through original building
- Memorabilia will be on display in the gym
- Alumni presentations and a photo slideshow will be on the big screen
Farewell Ceremony - 7 p.m.
- Welcome from Principal Nancy Withycombe
- Introduction of previous principals and staff in attendance
- Introduction of alumni by decade in attendance
- School Board member Anne Golden speech
- Edison Choir performance
- Alumni stories
- Refreshments, tours and displays
Location: Edison Elementary (1315 E. Alder)
Information
Nancy Withycombe, Principal
509.527.3072
Email: nwithycombe@wwps.org
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