Tri-Cities ROP Superintendent's Update
October 2017
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No Trick About It: ROP Students Gain Academic Treats

I can still recall those cool Autumn evenings out, donning the best costume I could find, carrying a pillowcase that would grow oh-so-heavy as the night wore on, door-knocking and greeting neighbors with the traditional "Trick-or-Treat!"  The weariness of the late-night effort quickly faded as the pillowcase was flipped over on my bottom bunk, filling my Snoopy bedspread with something that looked straight out of a Willie Wonka workshop.  I'd gaze at the glorious goodies as I carefully strategized which candy I would eat first, which I would trade, and sadly, which were destined to be tossed because the loose or missing wrapper would surely not pass parental inspection.  Oh, but the delight of finding a Pay Day bar!  It's gooey goodness surrounded by peanuts.  The salt and sweet sensation!  The Pay Day was never to be traded!  It was to be stored in the secret stash, waiting for the proper moment when it could be savored, preferably alone, so there would be no feeling of guilt for not wanting to share. 


Similiar to the Pay Day (or your personal favorite), our ROP classes are much to be desired and are worth every bit of effort.  And much like Halloween is to many children, we know our courses are popular.  In fact, according to our most recent Student Opinion Survey, 90% of those who participated, rated (on a scale of 1-5) their overall ROP training as either "5/Excellent" or "4/Very Good".  Our students offered many positive responses, such as:


  • "Best class of my entire high school experience."
  • "I enjoyed this class to the fullest.  It's opened up my mind to new opportunities and has prepared me for future careers I'm interested in."
  • "I have taken two ROP classes and I have loved both of them.  My time there was amazing.  I would recommend anyone to take an ROP class.  The teachers are excellent and you can tell they love what they do.


It doesn't get much sweeter than that, right? 


So as you go through your day, remember your youth and be mindful of what was it that made your high school days special and meaningful.  Pass out the treats of your caring guidance and professional knowledge and career experience.  Let them know that their efforts will result in sweet rewards.  The spirit of Halloween can be year round when you share with your students the right kind of treats.

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What is your favorite Halloween treat?

Click on the black button above marked "What is your favorite Halloween treat?" to respond to the survey question.  Those who respond by 12:00 noon on October 30th will be entered into a drawing for a delicious prize!  

NOTE:  You must be a current, full-time Tri-Cities ROP teacher or staff member in order to win the prize.


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CTE in Forefront of Local Leaders' Minds

On Monday, October 2, 2017, a Joint Informational Hearing of Assembly Members held a meeting to discuss The Future of Career Technical Education (CTE) in  CaliforniaNatasha E. Collins, Senior Fiscal and Policy Analyst, Legislative Analyst's Office, provided an update on the current status of CTE in California.  Several panels which were comprised of administrators, principals, teachers, students, business leaders, and association officials testified as to the importance of CTE programs.  A public comment hearing was also held which gave those in attendance an opportunity to speak about the importance of CTE.  Superintendent Tracie Zerpoli took advantage of this opportunity and addressed the Committee about her experience, support, and passion for continuing ROP/CTE programs.  

After the hearing, Assemblymember Patrick O'Donnell (70th District) wrote, "As a teacher for more than 20 years, I know firsthand that a traditional education does not engage every student.  For some students, CTE programs and other alternative pathways become the driving force behind their academic success."

In his monthly newsletter, WUHSD Superintendent Martin Plourde highlighted career and technical education opportunities provided in their district, including programs offered by Tri-Cities ROP, stating career pathways propel students to the next level, "...giving students the confidence to enter the job market with business expertise and experience..."

And CTE is not just local news.  Schools across the United States are embracing CTE, some passing legislation that would require schools to offer career readiness courses.  (For more on what other states are doing, click the link below which contains an article written by Catherine Gewertz that appeared in the October 4, 2017 edition of Education Week):

http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2017/10/04/growing-numbers-of-states-embrace-career-education.html

Superintendent Zerpoli stated, "Speaking before the legislative committees was a positive experience.  There is no doubt that ROP/CTE is very much alive, and I am very optimistic about future funding of our programs."


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TCROP CE Courses Approved by the Dental Board of California

Tri-Cities ROP has been notified by the Dental Board of California that we have received full approval to implement the stand-alone Continuing Education ("CE") courses for the following:
  • Radiology
  • 8-Hour Infection Control
  • Coronal Polishing 
  • Pit and Fissure Sealant

We will be offering these approved CE courses in the very near future.  If you know someone who needs these types of credits, please pass on the news and our website, www.tricitiesrop.org, where interested students may enroll.

A great big shout out and thank you to Ms. Therese Kennedy, our Director of Curriculum & Instruction, and to Ms. Dee Cotton, our Dental Assisting Instructor, for making this happen!  (Another Pay Day candy bar moment -- despite the work involved, the reward is sweet and definitely worth the effort!)


Spotlight on TCROP Teachers

As promised in our last newsletter, here is a little bit about some of our newest TCROP members:

Richard Alvarez - Utility Worker (ROP Center) comes to us after having served as a substitute custodian/grounds worker for Whittier City School District.  He is a graduate of La Serna High School where he currently holds a Varsity Football Coach position ("Go Lancers!").  Despite having a heavy workload, Richard finds time to pursue his college degree at Rio Hondo College.  He is an avid sports fan and enjoys attending USC football games ("Fight On!"), Dodgers baseball games, and Los Angeles Kings hockey games.

Evonne Caouette - Sports Medicine/Medical Core Instructor (Whittier High School) is the proud mother of two, a boy and a girl.  She was a volleyball scholarship athlete who majored in Athletic Training and holds a Masters Degree.  Evonne loves to spend time with her friends, listens to country music, loves dancing, and trains in Jiu-Jitsu.  (Note:  See amazing news story below about Evonne's recent heroism.)

Dee Cotton - Dental Assisting Instructor (Pioneer High School) has 30 years of experience in the dental field, serving in various capacities ranging from clinical to consulting.  She has had the opportunity to serve as an examiner on an accreditation team evaluating schools across various states.  "I am excited about the opportunity to be a part of Tri-Cities ROP," said Ms. Cotton.  

Louis Garcia - Construction Technology (Pioneer High School) said, "I want to greet everyone with a hello and I am happy to be working for Tri-Cities ROP."  Louis has over 20 years experience in the construction field and looks forward to bringing his knowledge and passion for the subject to the classroom.  He is looking forward to a great year.

Pia Ribbe - Computer Coding (Ellen Ochoa Prep Academy) has over 20 years of industry experience in Information and Communications Technology.  Bringing both theoretical and practical experience, Mrs. Ribbe is teaching one of our newest STEM electives, Introduction to Computer Science, with a focus on programming.  Mrs. Ribbe received her Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science from California State University, Fullerton.  She and her husband, James, have two children, ages 13 and 10.  

Nicholas Guerra - Long-Term Substitute Teacher for Medical Core/EMR and Career Internship (El Rancho High School).  In addition to his teaching gig, Nicholas works as a Paramedic in Los Angeles County.  He has experience teaching ROP, having spent four years as a teacher for La Puente Valley ROP.

Todd Ryan - Administration of Justice Academy Instructor has joined our after-school instructional team.  Sergeant Ryan spends most of his time protecting and serving the citizens of Whittier as a sworn member of the Whittier Police Department's Investigations Bureau. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family and watching sports.

We are so happy to have these teaching superstars on our team! 

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A Hero Among Us!

One of the newest members of our Tri-Cities ROP teaching staff, Ms. Evonne Caouette, is being hailed as a modern-day hero for her "courage under fire" during the recent Las Vegas massacre at the Route 91 Music Festival.  Ms. Caouette, who teaches ROP Sports Medicine and Medical Core classes at Whittier High School, was able to react quickly and assist those around her who were in harm's way,  because of her background  and experience.  The must-see NBC news story can be seen at:


http://www.nbclosangeles.com/on-air/as-seen-on/Whittier-Teacher-Helps-Vegas-Shooting-Victims_Los-Angeles-449838373.html 


We are all proud to have Ms. Caouette on board with us and will be happy to pitch in for the purchase of the new "Super Hero Cape!"



Attention, Food Fanatics!

Recently, Chef Luna and his El Rancho Culinary Arts students seized the opportunity to attend "Food Fanatics Live," a food show where the latest and greatest food trends are on display, tempting buyers from the food industry to purchase the newest food products.  The venue, the Disneyland Hotel, was a perfect place for this magical event filled with creative and mouth-watering sensations to tempt even the most committed dieter!


Up next for ERHS Culinary:  

  • The always-popular Annual Halloween Challenge; and
  • Help Feed the Homeless event on Thanksgiving Day


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El Rancho High School Gets a New HOSA Chapter!

Health Occupations Students of America ("HOSA") is an international student organization recognized by the United States Department of Education. HOSA is a unique program of leadership development, motivation, and recognition exclusively for students in health science education and biomedical science programs or who have interests in pursuing careers in health professions.  The students will be given networking opportunities and the ability to enter challenging competitions.  Nick Guerra, Pat McCaw, and Cecilio Alonso will serve as El Rancho High School's HOSA Advisors.  We are excited to see this new group grow and become a powerful force at competitions!
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The Neck Bone is Connected to the...

Pioneer High School Medical Core students, under the guidance of Dr. Rosie Bedolla, are collaborating, engaging, and learning their bones as they work on their group skeleton project!  Though a very challenging task, this has become one of the more popular projects assigned.  Might we call this another Pay Day candy bar moment? Hmmm....
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Santa Fe High School Hosts WUHSD College Fair

On September 21, students and families arrived in big numbers for this year's WUHSD College Fair at Santa Fe High School.  The fair featured over 65 college representatives, in addition to several military and other non-profit organizations.  The event was attended by our College and Career Pathways Advisors ("CCPAs"), who represented Tri-Cities ROP and participated in all the action.

Ms. Adele Cuevas and Ms. Jazmin Gonzalez managed the TCROP table and effectively engaged the massive crowds by providing ROP information and also sharing advice for student success beyond high School.  Mr. Cody Hill and Mr. Jeremey Hunter presented two sessions on Career Planning to parents and students, highlighting the importance and major benefit of exploring careers, establishing a career plan, and selecting a major BEFORE choosing a college.

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TCROP Participates in Pico Rivera Career and Trade Fair

On Saturday, September 23, Tri-Cities ROP participated in the Career and Trade Fair in the City of Pico Rivera.  The event was hosted by Assembly Member Cristina Garcia of the 58th Assembly District of California.  Mr. Cody Hill, College and Career Pathways Advisor, and Ms. Elena Solis, Career Internship (WHS)/Intro to Teaching Instructor (LSHS/PHS), spent the day sharing TCROP's programs and opportunities with citizens looking to become more competitive in the workforce and advance their professional careers.  Mayor of Pico Rivera, Bob Archuleta (pictured) stopped by to share his and the City's appreciation of its partnership with TCROP. 

WHS Student Mistake Leads to Discovery!

Mr. Steve Swanson, Engineering/Digital Electronics instructor at Whittier High School, recently shared with us a video of a recent class project that we're sure you will find fascinating.  Apparently, the class was working on building 555 timers which blink a light on and off.  One of his students made a few mistakes along the way and accidentally made an electric field detector!   Take a peek by clicking on the link below.


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WHS Student Dreams of Becoming a Pediatric Surgeon

"Zyah Ruiz is a very smart, mature, and motivated student," said Whittier High School College and Career Pathway Advisor, Ms. Jazmin Gonzalez, "He has decided that a career in the medical field is his passion and is planning to take the Certified Nurse Assistant class next semester." 

Zyah heard about a program that is partnered with UCLA called Cope Junior Health Scholars.  With this program, he will be able to get 20 hours of preparatory training and 144 hours of rotation hours, totaling 164 hours in the medical field!  Zyah is hoping to get into the program, which will allow him to work at St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach.  Ms. Gonzalez is helping Zyah prepare for his first program interview, which is scheduled for Sunday, October 15.  He is keeping his fingers crossed as are all of us here at TCROP.  Good luck, Zyah!  We hope your dreams of becoming Dr. Ruiz are fulfilled!


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Career Internship at Whittier High School Off to a Great Start

Students in Ms. Elena Solis' Career Internship Class at WHS are getting real-world, work experience while still in high school!  Many students have already been placed at local businesses throughout Whittier and Pico Rivera, such as Petco, Marshall's, the Boys and Girls Club, Chick-Fil-A, just to name a few. When asked how they are performing, Ms. Solis said, "I have been hearing wonderful comments on how my students are displaying great initiative and professionalism.  I am extremely proud of them!"  Keep up the good work!  Work experience is a valuable tool for future success.  We encourage all who read this to patronize these businesses who support our students!

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TCROP Alumni News

2017 El Rancho Culinary Arts Students Find Recipes for Success


Drew Caraballo, alumnus of TCROP Culinary Arts, has moved to New York City to pursue his culinary career after graduating from Le Cordon Bleu.  Drew was a student in Chef Luna's 2015 class and was the proud recipient of the Pio Pico Women's Club Scholarship for Culinary Arts. 

Another ROP Culinary Arts alum, Isaac Cerecedes, ERHS Class of 2017, has just landed a new job at Bacaro, a well-known restaurant with a seasonally-selected menu featuring ingredients selected from farms in and around its location in Providence, Rhode Island.  Isaac also received a scholarship from the Pio Pico Women's Club and was also an Evening of Excellence award recipient.  Isaac is currently attending Johnson & Wales UniversityWay to go, Drew and Isaac!  We are proud of you!


2017 California High Auto Tech Grads on the Road to Success

Like Chef Luna from El Rancho, Mr. Bill Buttinelli, Cal High Auto Technology teacher, has a lot to be proud of when it comes to his former students finding success after high school.  Here is what some of them are doing now:

Pursuing Higher Education:

  • Diana Macias and Adelina Smith are attending Rio Hondo College (full time)
  • Antonio Garcia is attending Fullerton Junior College (full time);
  • Megan Fear is attending Los Angeles Trade Tech (full time);
  • David Herrera is attending California State University, Fullerton (full time)

Entering Military Service:

  • Alex Avalos, United States Marine Corps
  • Jonathan Troncoso, United States Army

Have Found Employment:

  • Kevin Arroyo - Toyota of Whittier (Lube Technician)
  • Lionel Bautista - Toyota of Whittier (Lube Technician)
  • Justin Magana - Premier Chevrolet of Buena Park (Lube Technician)
  • John Noriega - Auto Zone
  • Kenneth Reyes - McKenna Porsche (Lube Technician)
  • Christopher Rosales - Home Depot (Customer Service Rep)
  • Cesar Tafoya - Crown Lift Trucks (Lube Technician)

From Inside the Boardroom

At our Fall Inservice, some of you asked really good questions about our Tri-Cities ROP Governing Board.  These questions varied from, "Who are they and what do they do?" to "When do they meet?" and "Can anyone can attend a Board Meeting?"  We are pleased that these types of questions are raised, because they tell me that you are interested in knowing all about the organization and about those who govern our programs.  And, to that end, "From Inside the Boardroom," column was born.  It is our hope that you take the time to read this monthly posting and that you find it meaningful and insightful. 


This month, we will focus on the very basics, Governing Board 101, if you will.  It is important that you know who your Tri-Cities ROP Governing Board Members are. The Governing Board is comprised of five members from our two parent school districts; two elected Board members from Whittier Union High School District and two elected Board Members from El Rancho Unified School District.  The fifth member is appointed by the WUHSD Superintendent to serve on our ROP Board.  The term of each office is two years, with the exception of the appointed member's term, whose term is an unexpired term of office.


Currently, the Governing Board is comprised of the following members:


  • Dr. Aurora Villon, President (El Rancho Unified School District)
  • Mr. Jeff Baird, Vice President (Whittier Union High School District)
  • Dr. Teresa Merino, Clerk (El Rancho Unified School District)
  • Mr. Leighton Anderson, Member (Whittier Union High School District)
  • Mr. Loring Davies, Member (Whittier Union High School District)


Board Meetings are generally held the second Thursday of each month in the multi-purpose room of the ROP Center and are called to order at 4:00 p.m.  Following procedural items such as roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance, the Board goes into "Closed Session."  Once Closed Session matters are addressed, the Board meeting shifts to "Open Session," when it then becomes a public meeting, usually about 4:15 p.m.  This, of course, depends on the number and length of items on the Closed Session Agenda.  Everyone is always welcome to attend Board Meetings.  The next Board Meeting is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 9, in the Multi-Purpose Room at the ROP Center. 


If you are unable to attend, but want to still "be in the know," Board Meeting Agendas and Minutes are easily accessible by visiting our Tri-Cities website at www.tricitiesrop.org.  Click on the "About" tab and find the tab "Board Meeting Agendas and Minutes."  If you click that, it will take you to BoardDocs, an online, cloud-based software program that is very user-friendly, allowing you to view and navigate not only the current Board Agenda and Minutes, but those from years ago.


Here is a very brief synopsis of what occurred at our October 12 Board Meeting, wherein all members were present:


  • Superintendent Zerpoli gave a presentation on The Future of Career Technical Education ("CTE") in California
  • The Board approved one field trip
  • The Board approved the purchase of various textbooks and software
  • The Board approved the purchase of three hospital beds for a Skills Lab at California High
  • The Board approved the 2017 Counselors Breakfast


We sincerely hoped you enjoy this column.  Keep asking questions!  

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Dates to Remember!

  • October 10 - WUHSD Board Meeting at 7:00 p.m. (Sierra Vista Education Center)
  • October 12 - TCROP Governing Board Meeting at 4:00 p.m. (ROP Center)
  • October 16 - WUHSD No School
  • October 17 - TCROP Office Staff Meeting at 8:00 a.m. (ROP Center)
  • October 17 - ERUSD Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.  (Pico Rivera Council Chambers)
  • October 19 - Business Advisory Meeting at 8:00 a.m. (Architectural Drafting, Construction Technology, Introduction to Construction Technology, Digital Electronics, Principles of Engineering) Business Advisory Meeting (ROP Center)

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Happy Birthday to You!

On behalf of all of us at Tri-Cities ROP, happy birthday to those celebrating a birthday in October:
  • October 2 - Arlene Bumgarner, Home Health Aide Instructor (ROP Center)
  • October 4 - Sal Senar, Career Internship Instructor (LSHS, FHS)
  • October 5 - Pat McCaw, Emergency Responder/Medical Core Instructor (ERHS)
  • October 8 - Louis Garcia, Construction Technology Instructor (PHS)
  • October 15 - Ruth Sudick, Human Resource Coordinator (ROP Center)
  • October 18 - Marcos Meza, Automotive Technology Instructor (WHS)
  • October 23 - Adele Cuevas, College & Career Pathways Advisor (ERHS, CHS)
  • October 25 - Cody Hill, College & Career Pathways Advisor (LSHS, PHS)

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Join Us for the Next

The next "Read it and Reap" Book Club meeting, featuring What Great Teachers Do Differently will be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2017, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., in the Multi-Purpose Room at the ROP Center.  We will discuss, among other things, Chapter 11 - Don't Need to Repair - Always Do Repair.


Immediately following the Book Club Meeting, we will host our next session of the New Teacher Institute.  Even if you are not a "new" teacher, you are welcome to attend! 


For those of you who haven't attended one of our meetings and are a little hesitant to do so, by all means, please come and join us!  The meetings are very casual.  We are sure you will find the time spent with your colleagues to be beneficial and rewarding.  If you have questions or concerns, please contact Ms. Maria Tejeda at mtejeda@tricitiesrop.org. 


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Career Tips for Goal-Getter Students

The best career or job is the one in which you're using the skills you enjoy.  But not every job needs to address all of your passions.  Use every job as an opportunity to learn something new and keep an open mind.  You may find that you really enjoy something you never imagined would appeal to you!  - Miriam Salpeter, Founder of Keppie Careers


If you have a tip you'd like to share with students who are looking for a career and/or who are aspiring to achieve a goal, please share your tip with Adele Cuevas, College and Career Pathways Advisor at acuevas@tricitiesrop.org


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