Page Two La Costa Heights: National Blue Ribbon School
During the week of October 25th, members of the La Costa Heights staff traveled to Washington D.C. to receive the prestigious National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award. This was the culmination of an extensive process completed last year consisting of a 30 page application and a two day site visit by a representative from the National Department of Education. To earn the Blue Ribbon award, a school must first be selected as a California Distinguished School. The school must also demonstrate high test scores, exemplary teaching, challenging standards and curriculum, and strong school, family, and community partnerships. During the ‘98-99 school year 266 public and private schools were selected as Blue Ribbon schools nation-wide. Of these schools, 41 were from California. San Diego County had five elementary schools honored, three of which were from North County. Festivities held in Washington D.C. celebrating the school's accomplishments included an opening session with keynote speaker, President Bill Clinton, breakout sessions, an evening reception, and an official luncheon where the Blue Ribbon plaque and flag were presented. Those attending the celebration were also treated to Congressional and White House tours, a dinner celebration for the three North County Schools, and a La Costa Heights celebratory dinner hosted by superintendent Dr. Doug DeVore and representative Randy Cunningham. Those attending included Dr. Devore, principal Dr. Debbie Blow, assistant principal Lorraine Thompson, and teachers Brittany Buchel, Karen Knudson, Sue Sporl, and Ann Swan. All LCH students and staff attended an official flag raising ceremony at the school upon their return on November 2. The hoisting of the Blue Ribbon flag along with presentation of pencils for students and business cards for staff members started the school-wide celebration. District representatives, members of the school board, LCH school site council and PTA shared in the celebration of this nationally recognized school’s success. The Schools Are Alive with the Sound of Music
The year 2000 began with a new instrumental music program for EUSD students provided by Music House. Students attended assemblies in December that presented the history of the instruments and the value of music education. Music House is offering after school music classes and instrument rentals. Students in grades 3-5 can choose instruction in violin for 1.5 hours per week, and students in grades 4-6 may learn brass or woodwinds twice a week for 45 minutes. Instruction will culminate with student performances in May. |
