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Note: Missing finding numbers detected: F8
Findings and Recommendations 26 findings
F1
The circle of care opens at an early age for a Trinity County child. The Human Response Network, a private, non-profit organization, recognizes the special vulnerability of children. This organization provides many services to families including the following: Instruction in parenting techniques. Referrals for child care providers. > The operation of center based childcare and pre-schools in Weaverville at the Alps View campus, in Burnt Ranch at the Indian Association Hall, in Lewiston at the Lewiston Elementary School, and in Southern Trinity at the Van Duzen Elementary School campus. > The operation of ROVE, a mobile lending library that visits all communities providing toys, videos, games, parenting materials and information. ROVE circulates throughout the county on two to three week intervals. HRN is 95% funded by grants so there is no charge or a very small charge for services.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1
No change is recommended. The Grand Jury hopes these services will continue. We congratulate the Human Response Network for its 20 years of service to all of the people in Trinity County.
F2
The circle of care expands for the Trinity County child as he/she enters school. While the school personnel make plans to meet the individual needs of each child, others are ready to lend support. The Trinity County Office of Education, the Human Response Network, the Trinity County Behavioral Health Services and many volunteers work under the direction of employees at each individual school. The larger elementary schools have gymnasiums/cafeterias where breakfasts and lunches are provided for students. Even in a small school that does not have a cafeteria facility, a member of the classified staff supplies breakfasts snacks and cold lunches for those students who need nutrition. The small numbers of students that attend most Trinity County Schools create a challenge for educators. Since the student population is small and thus the income to the school is also small, most elementary schools must conduct multigrade classes. Very few schools have enough students to fund a class for just one grade level. The teachers, therefore, must prepare many lessons plans for individualized and small group instruction. The teachers must keep in mind the Student Learning Standards or educational goals that each child is working to master at each grade level. Most schools have paid aides, in at least the primary grades, to help teach the lessons. Some schools have volunteers who will assist with tasks when called. All schools have technology available and in use to assist instruction. To each school the Trinity County Office of Education offers the services of a counselor, a nurse, a speech therapist, a special education teacher and/or aide, Internet access, and audio-visual services. The Artist in Residence Program, offered through the County Office, allows a school to choose from a list of 22 local artists to teach a specific topic. · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · The following is a series of snap shot impressions gained by the Grand Jury members as they visited each campus and supporting agency.
No recommendations for this finding
F3
Burnt Ranch School Grades K to 8 In 1895 in western Trinity County the Burnt Ranch School was constructed as a one- room school. In 1962 the facility grew to five classrooms with a multipurpose room /cafeteria and a conference room. The school is clean and attractively maintained by the custodian/maintenance personnel. The teaching staff consists of a teaching Superintendent, a teaching Principal, and two additional classroom instructors. The teachers are supported by four aides and specialists supplied by the Trinity County Office of Education. The staff is pleased with the services provided by the County Office. The school enjoys the participation of many active enthusiastic parents and community members who generously volunteer their time. This year the attendance has varied from 77 to 80 students, which is down from a high of 117. The primary grades maintain a class size ratio of 20 students or less to one teacher. Nutritious breakfasts and lunches are available To assist with discipline in the school, the Superintendent, using grant money, is installing a program called "Conflict Resolution". A target group of students is trained in the techniques of helping their peers solve problems peacefully. The five member school board has recently undergone many changes. School board members are allowed to purchase health insurance through the school's plan. The Burnt Ranch School was named a California Distinguished School in 1990. Bus service is provided using a 66 passenger bus. In 1998/99 the transportation cost was $50,184. In 1998/99 Burnt Ranch School's total expense of education was $541,743 or $6,945 per student.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3
- Burnt Ranch School No change is recommended. The Grand Jury commends the entire staff for the learning experiences offered at the Burnt Ranch School. The dedication shown to and for the individual student is obvious to even the casual observer. The many years of teaching experience found in these classrooms are indeed impressive.
F4
Coffee Creek School Grades K to 8 Thirteen students are enrolled at this school which is nestled in the woods. This single class currently consists of students from grades kindergarten, one, two, three and six. Individualized instruction is used so that each child will master the required Student Learning Standards for his/her grade level. The small number of students allows the physical space to be used creatively by the class. Art, music and drama projects expand into unused space. New computers and a library are available for student use. This class is taught by one teacher- principal, her paid aid, and one other teacher who is contracted to teach 2 days a week. Many volunteers become instructors for small class projects. In addition to taking advantage of the usual services offered by the Trinity County Office of Education, a music teacher is contracted for a once a week class. There is an after school program every Tuesday and Thursday to provide individual instruction. There is no inter-school sports program because there are not enough students for team sports. Coffee Creek School was named a California Distinguished School in 1993. Coffee Creek School does not provide transportation to and from school for its students. In 1998/99 Coffee Creek's total expense of education was $129,734 or $9,980 per student.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4
- Coffee Creek School No change is recommended. The Grand Jury commends the Teacher/Principal for her earnest attempts to offer a varied, individualized program to her multigrade school. We encourage the Coffee Creek community to continue their active involvement in the school's activities.
F5
Cox Bar School Grades K to 8 For nearly 140 years the Cox Bar School has been located on the site of an ancient Chimariko Indian archeological site. This school has two classrooms and a cafeteria. The school's enrollment has declined over the last ten years, from a high of 56 to 24 now. One of the two credentialed teachers is a graduate of the Cox Bar School and her mother is one of the three aides, being a helper for the last seventeen years. Four classified employees bring the work force to nine. Multi-grade level classes benefit from teachers with good organizational skills. The Grand Jury members were impressed with the daily study routine exhibited by the staff. The school finds the services from the Trinity County Office of Education very helpful, but they find that the counseling services are not always readily available. Having a set day when the counselor would come rather than call for a counselor when the need is evident, appears to be preferred. The school provides a fresh fruit snack at morning recess for all students. Lunch is offered free of charge to students of families who meet the state income guidelines. Cox Bar School was named a California Distinguished School in 1995. Bus service is provided for all students. In 1998/99 the transportation cost was $38,029. In 1998/99 Cox Bar's total expense of education was $265,443 or $9,153 per student.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5
- Cox Bar School The Grand Jury commends the staff for the very effective manner in which the students are instructed as well as for the conditions and tools that are provided for the students' learning experiences.
F6
Douglas City School Grades K to 8 There are 140 students attending this well maintained school that sits atop a hill. Except for those enrolled in eighth grade, the students are placed in classrooms of two grades each (K-1, 1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 5-6, 6-7, 8). The principal is also the kindergarten / first grade teacher. The school supplements the regular classroom activities by contracting for music and art teachers. The music teacher provides vocal and instrumental music instruction to all grades. From this county's Artist in Residence Program an artist is hired to teach art history, drawing, and painting activities for all grades. As a result of this program, student projects have been recognized in shows, even national shows. A three-year technology grant has helped the school create a computer laboratory and staff it with a full time technician. The new computer laboratory is being used this year to assist students with mastering their language arts' Learning Standards. Next year the emphasis will be on math skills. On Friday afternoons trimester electives are available to grades 4 to 8. These electives are developed from the interests and strengths of the teachers involved. Such classes as foreign language, science, field trips to historic sights, and various sports are offered. Douglas City School sends home a newsletter each Friday. Individual teacher's comments keep the parents informed as to activities and needs of their child's classroom. Douglas City School does provide bus service to and from school for many students. The 1998/99 transportation expense was $73,343. In 1998/99 Douglas City's total expense of education was $827,905 or $5,914 per student.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6
- Douglas City School No change is recommended. The Grand Jury encourages the close working relationship that the school is developing with the parents. We appreciate the varied curriculum and the efforts put forth to obtain a grant that provided the Douglas City School with computer technology
F7
Junction City School Grades K to 8 This attractive, recently constructed school houses 74 students and 4 teachers. Five classrooms and an office each open into an airy multipurpose indoor space. Books, chairs, large portable tables and dividers make this central area an inviting expansion space for each classroom. The school operates 4 multigrade, self-contained classrooms (K-1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8). Each classroom has three computers that are networked to the computers found in the fifth classroom. In this laboratory a trained aide makes modern computer technology available to students. Music and art instruction is also provided once a week. During the year a theater company comes for one week and organizes the school into a one week "Create a Play" workshop. There is an after school program that is staffed by aides and parent volunteers and is largely funded by grants. On Monday enrichment programs are offered. Tuesday is crafts day. Wednesday is homework assistance day. There is an active sports program, but it is the school's policy that the participating students must be up on their homework. The administration is very proud of the dedication of the staff and of the support that the community has given the school. Helping each child master his/her Student Learning Standards is a large workload for a teacher in a multigrade classroom. Volunteers are needed and appreciated. Junction City School does not provide buses to and from school for its students. In 1998/99 Junction City's total expense of education was $424,365 or $5,511 per student.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7
- Junction City School No change is recommended. The Grand Jury applauds the efforts put forth by the Junction City staff and community to provide a variety of educational opportunities for the students. The staff effectively uses the design of the physical building to enhance the curriculum.
F9
Trinity Center School Grades K to 8 Trinity Center School is made up of two buildings. The main building was constructed in 1962 and houses two classrooms, restrooms, an office and a computer laboratory. The old Trinity Center schoolhouse is the other building. This old schoolhouse was moved to its current location from old Trinity Center when Trinity Lake was formed. It currently houses one class but only for this 1999 - 2000 school year. The old schoolhouse does not meet earthquake standards and therefore can no longer be used by students, but can be used for storage. Trinity Center School will soon add a new classroom with attached handicapped accessible restrooms to its main building. A second access road to Trinity Center School will also be created. The second access road will allow for one way traffic flow, improving safety for those students who walk or ride bicycles to school. Bus transportation to and from school is not provided. The school population is small, only 48 students, but the available program for students is large. The student body occupies 3 classrooms (grades K-3, 4-6, 7-8). The principal is also the seventh and eighth grade teacher. All classrooms have group and individualized instruction which is focused on the Student Learning Standards. Computers exist throughout the school and are used for instruction, practicing skills, research, and publishing. Music instruction is provided to the school through the Trinity County Office of Education. To expand the student offerings, the school contracts with individuals to bring their skills to school. Students enjoy instruction in various art forms, drama, gymnastics, dance, cross-country skiing, and swimming at a local pool. This school participates in inter-school sports activities, which is sometimes difficult because this school has no gymnasium. After school time is busy too with employees and volunteers providing instruction. Extra help is given in reading and mathematics. Some recreational activities are provided through the Human Response Network. In 1998/99 Trinity Center's total expense of education was $365,909 or $7,318 per student.
Related Recommendations (1)
R9
- Trinity Center School No change is recommended. The Grand Jury shares the excitement of adding a new classroom to the facility. We applaud the staff of the Trinity Center School for providing an interesting variety of educational activities to this small student body. .
F10
Weaverville Elementary School Grades K to 8 Weaverville Elementary School, a California Distinguished School in 1989, is Trinity County's largest elementary school. Twenty-three teachers greet 442 students in mostly single graded classrooms. In the primary and middle grades reading and related subjects are the central focus for morning instruction. The principal is proud of the reading program for which all teachers have been specially trained. Many educational opportunities for students exist outside of the core curriculum. It is obvious that several teachers have put forth extra effort to provide the best possible learning environment for their students. A full time music teacher presents instrumental and vocal lessons to all grade levels and is raising funds to obtain better chairs, a portable stage, and music stands. The computer teacher has developed a laboratory with 30 computers in a large room. He teaches students in grades 4 through 8 such skills as keyboarding, word processing, data base management and spreadsheet use. The science-math teacher has created a "hands on" instructional laboratory. Here a large screen television is able to act as an opaque projector for displaying book pages and small samples. A special education teacher has developed a learning packet called, "Brain Gym". Students develop their motor skills in a warm up activity before they begin their other studies. The library serves all students by being open before school, after school and at lunchtime. Each class comes to the library once a week for a half hour session. The library is well stocked with several news and entertainment magazines, over 20,000 books, and 7 computers that have Internet access. A homework assistance program operates in the library after school for students in grades 4 to 8. Positive use of the time in the library earns the students points for field trips. These field trips are financed by private businesses in Weaverville. Weaverville Elementary School does contract bus service to and from school for most of its students at a cost of approximately $139,000 per year. In 1998/99 Weaverville's total expense of education was $2,504,183 or $5,920 per student.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
– Weaverville Elementary School No change is recommended. The Grand Jury encourages the staff to continue its educational plan that has "Student Benefit as its bottom line" as stated in the school's web site. We appreciate the parent and community involvement that supports the educational opportunities provided at this school.
F11
Home School (Countywide) Grades K to 8 Home School, as offered by Trinity County Office of Education, is a voluntary educational alternative to regular school for grades K - 8. Home School is supervised independent study where the student meets regularly with his teacher, who is usually a parent, and completes assigned work by its due date. Through the Trinity County Office of Education the student is entitled to textbooks and supplies, supervision by a credentialed supervising teacher, and all the services and resources received by other children enrolled in the same grade. Music instruction, art instruction, and field trips are available to all independent study students. but the students' families must provide transportation. At the parent/guardian's request, a supervising teacher first meets with the parent/guardian and student to draw up an educational plan that becomes a "Master Agreement for Home Study". The supervising teacher will meet with the student and his teacher on a regular basis, usually once a week in the beginning and at least once every 20 days thereafter. The supervising teacher measures progress toward the objectives that are noted in the agreement. Samples of work are collected. The student's teacher keeps a log of daily activities. The student takes the STAR (Standardized Testing and Reporting) test, as do all regular school students, to measure educational progress for the year. Currently there are 30 students enrolled in Home School at the Trinity County Office of Education. Typically the average student remains in home study for 2 to 4 years. The primary grades are the most popular years for home study. The 1999/2000 proposed budget for Home School is $117,719. For 30 students the expense of education per student would be $ 3,923.97. Individual school districts in the county may also offer their own home school programs. Examples of districts that have their own home school programs are Mountain Valley Unified School District, Southern Trinity Joint Unified School District, Lewiston School District and Burnt Ranch School District.
Related Recommendations (1)
R11
– Home School No change is recommended. The Grand Jury commends the Trinity County Office of Education and its director of Home School for providing a structured educational alternative plan for students.
F12
Trinity Union High School District Grades 9 to 12 Trinity High School – 480 students Alps View High School, the continuation high school – 42 students Community School, the court ordered school – 6 students Eight elementary schools feed into the Trinity Union High School District, which has an enrollment of about 528 students. To encourage equal preparedness of incoming students for high school level work, Trinity County Office of Education is encouraging monthly meetings of Trinity High School's administrators with the principals of the feeder schools. Trinity High School offers a wide variety of classes designed to meet the interests and needs of its students. Besides the academic classes that meet the needs of those students who wish to go on to college, the school provides classes such as agriculture, woodshop, auto shop, art, music and business. Courses may be taken through Shasta College when the numbers of students at Trinity High School are too small to justify a single class. Calculus students go to the Shasta College facility in Weaverville near the post office. (Please see FINDING #24 for further Shasta College information.) A few high school age students need an alternative system of education from that provided by the regular high school. Often these students have non-educational issues that must be addressed by the school and community if the students are to be successful in their educational endeavors. Alps View High School provides individualized instruction toward the completion of the high school graduation requirements for both teenage students and adults. The General Equivalency Diploma (GED), which is not a university recognized certificate of completion, is a less rigorous academic goal for some students. The staff provides access for students to community services and agencies such as Trinity County Behavioral Health Services, the Human Response Network, Trinity County Youth Services, and the County Office of Education. Students have the opportunity to participate in career counseling, job placement services and regional occupation programs as supplements to their classroom instruction. Students who have broken laws may find themselves in another type of school. At the direction of a judge, the Probation Department will carry out the punishments and rehabilitation of these students. The Probation Department must supply at least 3.5 hours of education per day for each student. Currently those students not incarcerated are assigned to the Community School where their individual educational needs' programs are carried out in an 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. school day. These students receive the counseling needed to help them become more responsible citizens. Behavioral Health Services provide counseling pertaining to drug and alcohol abuse and mental health issues. Trinity High School was named a California Distinguished School in 1990. The Trinity Union High School District does provide transportation to and from school for its students. The district owns five buses. Students are transported from Hawkins Bar, Coffee Creek, Buckhorn Summit, Douglas City, and Lewiston. The transportation cost in 1998/99 was $322,114. After reimbursements from other districts and the state, the cost to the general budget is $50,000 to $70,000 per year. In 1998/99 Trinity Union High School District's total expense of education was $3,291,868 or $6,974 per student.
Related Recommendations (1)
R12
- Trinity Union High School District The Grand Jury applauds the coordination that is taking place in meetings between the Trinity High School administrators and educators from all its feeder schools. We encourage teachers of subjects not covered by the Student Learning Standards (example - instrumental music) to meet to develop a continuous curriculum plan. We urge the Trinity High School educators to continue to work with Shasta College's curriculum planners in order to provide more courses for enrollment by high school students. (example - foreign languages not currently taught at Trinity High School) Because the transient students at the Community School have such a wide range of needs, the Grand Jury recommends that the Community School teacher be provided with a part time clerical aide to assist with the record keeping and the preparation of instructional materials.
F13
Mountain Valley School District Grades K to 12 The Mountain Valley School District, primarily located in the Hayfork and Hyampom areas, is made up of five separate schools: Hayfork Elementary School, Hyampom Elementary School, Hayfork High School, Valley High Continuation School and the Community Day School. Five board members who are elected at large govern the district. The superintendent, in addition to administering the district, is also principal of Hyampom Elementary School, Valley High Continuation School and the Community Day School. Due to recent poor economic conditions, the district is facing cutbacks in both staff and programs. Enrollment in the district has diminished approximately 200 students since the SPI mill closed in 1995. Administrative salary freezes have been put in place. The district utilizes state lottery funds, grants, and state mandated cost reimbursements to provide for additional programs and equipment. The district employs fifty-two fully credentialed teachers; twenty-seven are in the elementary schools and are assisted by classified employees including teachers' aides. The classified employees will most likely feel the brunt of further cutbacks should they occur. The various schools will have to rely more and more on volunteers for support. School board members are compensated for their efforts by way of paid health insurance in the district plan. Elementary school students who live in Hyampom have the option of attending Hyampom School or Hayfork Elementary School. Round trip bus transportation is provided between Hyampom and Hayfork for those Hyampom residents who choose to attend elementary school in Hayfork and for all high school students who attend Hayfork High School. Hyampom residents attending Hyampom School are not bussed to and from school. In 1998/99 the transportation cost for this district was $332,197. In 1998/99 Mountain Valley School District's total expense of education was $4,320,976 or $8,358 per student.
Related Recommendations (1)
R13
- Mountain Valley School District The Grand Jury encourages the Mountain Valley School District to continue to seek alternative funding so it can continue to provide an excellent educational program for its students. So that more funds may be applied to educational services, school board members' paid health insurance benefits may be difficult to justify and should be reconsidered. Employees of the district appear to be dedicated and loyal in the face of trying times. The Grand Jury is proud of the tenacity of parents, staff, and citizens of the district to keep their schools and provide quality education for the young people of the area.
F14
Hayfork Elementary School Grades K to 8 Hayfork Elementary School is a large school for Trinity County with in excess of 300 students, including 30 home school students. Hayfork Elementary School was named a California Distinguished School in 1990. The school is located in Hayfork on Highway 3 next to the town's park. The campus is attractive and well maintained. The school is staffed with a full time principal, twenty-one credentialed teachers, nine aides, one librarian, two secretaries, three custodians, and three kitchen staff. In addition to the employees, the school receives a great deal of support from the Parent Community Action Team. Cutbacks, due to the declining enrollment, will most assuredly affect staffing levels in all categories. Because the students scored two percent below the state averages in assessment testing, the educators applied for and received a $50,000 grant to help students and staff improve. The grant includes the services of an outside evaluator. School authorities are very optimistic about the program and they have been given three years to help students improve their test scores. The staff looks at the process as an opportunity and has approached the problem with great sincerity. There is a strong feeling of family in this school and community.
Related Recommendations (1)
R14
- Hayfork Elementary School The Hayfork Elementary School administration and staff are to be commended for applying for the grant and implementing it for the betterment of the students. The Grand Jury commends the staff's dedication and encourages the community of Hayfork to continue to support the school in its efforts.
F15
Hyampom Elementary School Grades K to 8 Hyampom Elementary School is a most impressive, well maintained school, set in a beautiful valley. This school was named a California Distinguished School in 1993 and 1998. There are 20 students enrolled with 2 being home schooled. The principal is the Mountain Valley School District's superintendent. The staff is made up of one credentialed full time educator and two part time aides. The teacher is involved in all phases of instruction including teaching and assessing the progress of each student in the Student Learning Standards. The required tests for measuring progress in the Learning Standards do not appear to be curriculum based, which makes instruction very difficult. Since the school is in a relatively isolated area, problems do arise. Students' lunches and breakfasts are prepared in the district's facility in Hayfork, which is 45 minutes away. Some special services are provided by the Trinity County Office of Education in Weaverville on an "as needed" basis. Special counseling is provided on a call basis, which is a change from previous years when certain days of the month were scheduled. It is difficult for students to be taken on field trips. Most areas of interests are many hours away. Vans are made available by the district, but the Site Council must pay for extra curricular use expenses with liability insurance provided by the driver's personal insurance. (Site Council is a committee of residents and teachers who work to improve a school and its curriculum. A Council is funded through a variety of sources such as fundraisers, grants, the school's budget and charity.)
Related Recommendations (1)
R15
- Hyampom Elementary School The Grand Jury recommends that the Mountain Valley Unified School District review its policy for funding field trips. We are proud of Hyampom Elementary School with its dedicated staff and parent support. The school is neat, clean, and in good repair. It's apparent that the staff instills a great deal of pride in its students.
F16
Hayfork High School Grades 9 to 12 Hayfork High School, named a California Distinguished School in 1990, currently has an enrollment of 160 students. Many parents work out of the area, but they like living in Hayfork. They also want to have their children remain in school in Hayfork. The campus is a closed campus except for juniors and seniors who have at least a 3.0 grade point average. The facilities are clean and well kept. Currently a portion of the campus is being retrofitted with a new heating and air conditioning system. The staff is made up of eleven certificated teachers, four aides, and fifteen other classified personnel. Transportation for students is provided by the district. However, for some long athletic department trips, contracting with private carriers have been more cost effective than using district provided transportation. One concern expressed, relating to graduation required testing, is that some students may decide to drop out of school rather than risk failure. This concern may be universal.
Related Recommendations (1)
R16
- Hayfork High School The Grand Jury appreciates and applauds the administration and staff of Hayfork High School for their efforts in helping their students during these times of economic hardships. The results of the mill closure are evident to the casual observer passing through the community. These economic hardships are not apparent at the school where education and dedication go hand-in-hand. The community should be proud of the people that make education work, the staff of Hayfork High School.
F17
Valley High Continuation School Grades 9 to 12 Valley High Continuation School is located on Tule Creek Road and is clean and well maintained. There are fifteen students currently enrolled. The superintendent for the Mountain Valley Unified School District serves as the principal with one full time teacher and one secretary/aide. The staff appears dedicated, eager, and most proficient. Much individual instruction occurs and group classes, such as English and social studies, are now being taught. Extra curricular activities are at a minimum with the emphasis on education.
Related Recommendations (1)
R17
- Valley High Continuation School It is imperative, in the face of economic hardships, that this facility be maintained. The Grand Jury commends the administration and staff of Valley High Continuation School for this fine facility and for the dedicated education they provide. Students and parents are fortunate to have such an excellent facility as an alternative to the more structured high school.
F18
The Community Day School Grades 9 to 12 The Community Day School is a special high school located adjacent to the Hayfork Elementary School. The school currently has six students, one credentialed teacher, one aide, and one member of the Trinity County Probation Department. The school is funded jointly by the Mountain Valley Unified School District and the Trinity County Probation Department. The school's purpose is to provide educational opportunities to young persons who are unable to attend their regular high schools because of behavioral/correctional problems. Students are placed in the school by juvenile court orders. The school is well maintained and staffed by highly qualified and dedicated people. Student's work on a point system and if they excel, they are allowed to return to Valley High Continuation School and ultimately to Hayfork High School. Students may also enroll in adult education classes that are offered in the district. Special education services, such as those -14- provided by a counselor, a speech therapist, and a nurse, are offered to the school by the Trinity County Office of Education.
Related Recommendations (1)
R18
- The Community Day School The Grand Jury recommends that the district continue this worthwhile endeavor, allowing students to attend school locally instead of having the students bussed to Weaverville. The Grand Jury is very pleased by its reception at the Community Day School, both by staff and students. The staff is commended for providing a chance at a quality education to students who need it the most.
F19
Southern Trinity Joint Unified School District Grades K to 12 Southern Trinity Joint Unified School District covers 1,000 square miles, including portions of Humboldt County. Schools served by the district are Hoaglin-Zenia Elementary School, Van Duzen Elementary School, Southern Trinity High School and Mt. Lassic High School. The district provides transportation for students to schools and to activities, utilizing vans when full size busses are not needed. There are seventeen certificated teachers in the district. The administrator is also a principal / teacher /athletic coach. Non-certificated staff consists of five aides and fifteen other classified personnel, some of which are part-time employees. In addition to staff, many parents and community members assist and participate in the various educational activities of the schools. The district, while large and encumbered by distance, poor roads, and occasional bad weather, provides excellent educational services and activities for the students. In addition, the students, staff, and volunteers provide educational and recreational activities for the community through sports, plays, dinners, and social fundraisers. Southern Trinity Joint Unified School District's Healthy Start grant expired on June 30, 1997. It was a three-year grant for a total of $400,000. Currently a "Kids First" grant worth $2399 is benefiting Hoaglin-Zenia Elementary School. In 1998/99 the transportation cost for Southern Trinity Joint Unified School District was $303,076. In 1998/99 Southern Trinity Joint Unified School District's total expense of education was $1,762,205 or $9,630 per student.
Related Recommendations (1)
R19
- Southern Trinity Joint Unified School District Special attention is currently being given to the arts and music and is certainly With the income from federal timber sales declining, the Grand Jury encourages encouraged. this school district to pursue grant funding. The administration, staff, students and community of Southern Trinity Joint Unified School District are congratulated by the Grand Jury for providing education and activities which benefit the whole community. Small schools located in large areas do provide excellent educational opportunities.
F20
Hoaglin-Zenia Elementary School Grades k to 8 Hoaglin-Zenia Elementary School is a beautifully maintained school in a serene setting. It is staffed by two certificated teachers and two aides. Enrollment (27) has remained relatively constant in the last few years. The school provides for special education instruction with the help of the Trinity County Office of Education. Despite its remote location, all student services are provided. The school has parents who take an active interest in the education of their children and assist in extra curricular programs. The Site Council (defined in FINDING #15) is currently tracking the successes and failures of graduates to see how the school could better serve its students. The school wants to find what programs could be added and/or what existing ones may be made better.
Related Recommendations (1)
R20
- Haoglin-Zenia Elementary School No change is recommended. The Grand Jury is proud to be able to visit a distant school in the county that is up-to-date and is a definite asset to the community. The administration, staff, students and parents of Hoaglin-Zenia Elementary School are to be commended. The residents are proud of their school and the Grand Jury commends them for their continued support.
F21
Van Duzen Elementary School Grades k to 8 Van Duzen Elementary School is located just off Highway 36, on the banks of the Van Duzen River. It is adjacent to Southern Trinity High School. The district office is located in the elementary school. The school enrollment, now 92, decreased several years ago due to mill closures. The school now has extra space which has been utilized to enhance the education of the students. The buildings and grounds are well maintained. Transportation is provided by the district for all activities. Vans are used for small groups. Six teachers and three aides staff the school which draws students from as far away as Buck Mountain and Ruth. Educational opportunities are high for a small school due to staff dedication to a "Kids First" attitude and commitment. Students scored very well on the state assessment standards, further evidence of a very good school.
Related Recommendations (1)
R21
- Van Duzen Elementary School The staff, students, and district are encouraged to further pursue the fledgling music program. Anyone could drive by this school and know that something special must be happening here. Van Duzen Elementary School is a credit to the community and is to be commended.
F22
Southern Trinity High School Grades 9 to 12 Southern Trinity High School, located next to the Van Duzen Elementary School, provides excellent educational opportunities for its students. Southern Trinity High School was named a California Distinguished School in 1993. Busses transport practically all students due to the large size of the district and to the sparse settlement of the area. There are 53 students enrolled, with ten in this year's graduating class. There are seven certificated teachers and no aides at the high school. The campus is exceptionally clean and well maintained. A recent addition has provided offices and a snack bar adjacent to the gymnasium. The cafeteria is shared with Van Duzen Elementary School. The kitchen facilities are excellent and often are used for community events. The school has excellent athletic programs that are supported by the community. Field trips and SOTR (School on the Road) transportation are provided by the district. Independent study or home school is available. ···. Due to the long distances involved, services offered by Child Protective Service are not timely and quite often are not available. Meanwhile, the district is obligated to provide education to students in almost all situations. When disciplining a student, as a last resort, the student is placed in Mt. Lassic High School or is expelled from school.
Related Recommendations (1)
R22
- Southern Trinity High School No change is recommended. The community in which Southern Trinity High School is located is indeed fortunate. The Grand Jury congratulates the staff, parents, and students for their dedicated involvement in the education process. The students are also commended for scoring well on the new state assessment tests.
F23
Mt. Lassic High School Grades 9 to 12 Mt. Lassic High School is a continuation high school that is staffed by one teacher for the seven to eight students. The school is located on the Van Duzen Elementary School campus and is serviced by the Southern Trinity Joint Unified School District and Trinity County Office of Education. Students who attend are those who are not comfortable with the structure of regular high school classes, who sometimes are behind and can earn extra credits here for graduation, or who may not fit the "academic mold". The district must provide educational opportunities for all students, regardless of their abilities or circumstances. Those students who are under court orders to enroll in a community school, must attend the Community School in Weaverville.
Related Recommendations (1)
R23
– Mt. Lassic High School While the students of Mt. Lassic High School may want separation from structured classrooms, Southern Trinity Joint Unified School District should continue to provide, as much as possible, opportunities for integration into regular classes. The successes of this school, while sometimes limited, are much more profound when they do occur. The staff is commended for its continued support of the students and this program.
F24
Shasta College comes to Trinity County Responding to this community's needs and interests, Shasta College provides educational opportunities for people of all ages. "In person" instructors bring their classes to Weaverville and Hayfork. Interactive television brings some Redding based Shasta College classes into a classroom located in Weaverville near the post office. Any person may enroll in most Shasta College classes as long as that person has the prerequisites needed for that class. For most classes adults have priority in the order of registration over high school and younger students. Next summer young folks can look forward to summer clinics held in Weaverville. There will be drama camp, soccer camp, basketball camp... Classes are inexpensive. The current charges are $16.50 for registration plus $11.00 per unit.
Related Recommendations (1)
R24
The Grand Jury recommends that all citizens get acquainted with the Shasta College offerings. Just visit the Shasta College office near the post office in Weaverville.
F25
Trinity County Behavioral Health Services Trinity County Behavioral Health Services' mission is "to insure that the residents of Trinity County will have access to an array of behavioral health services that will enable them to function within their families and communities." This agency provides "specialized children's services in collaboration with Child Protective Services, Probation and County schools, which have formed an inter-disciplinary treatment team". What this means to the schools is that ordinary school problems are handled by the school and the County Office of Education's counselors. If the child's problems are more complex and/or involve more individuals such as the family, then the next level of care is called in for assistance. The next level of care is often the Behavioral Health Services team. Typical problems being treated are the following: substance use or abuse, lack of self-esteem, family fighting, anger, sadness, fear, life transitions, relationships and sex issues. Currently counselors serve the following elementary schools: Weaverville, Trinity Center, Coffee Creek, Lewiston, Hayfork and Van Duzen. Occasionally the Human Response Network is contracted by Trinity County Behavioral Health Services to provide services to solve the above problems. Just 3 months after the origin of this program in the schools, the administration of Behavioral Health Services said that the requests for mental health counseling are growing at a rate of 22 students a month. State and/or federal moneys finance most activities. Medi-Cal, the Healthy Families program, and private insurance are utilized. No one is turned away due to the inability to pay. The school districts are not billed for services.
Related Recommendations (1)
R25
– Behavioral Health Services Because early intervention into a child's serious problems may remove barriers to his/her happiness and growth at an early age, the Grand Jury applauds the specialized children's services provided to schools by the inter-disciplinary treatment team. We would like to see this service expanded to other schools as funds become available.
F26
Trinity County Office of Education Small school districts cannot, by themselves, afford to provide all the instruction and services that teachers and students might need or want. All the districts in Trinity County depend on the County Office of Education to help them with finances and program support. The County Office assists each school district with the preparation of its yearly budget. It provides guidelines and calculates revenue limits for budget development. The County Office receives the revenue from all sources and deposits the income with the County Treasurer for investment until that income is needed. The County Office also writes all checks for expenditures. During the year the County Office monitors and reviews the budgets and notifies a · • district's board if there are any On Going Concerns. No district is currently on the On Going Concerns list. The County Office lobbies government agencies and writes grants to increase funding. Grants provide extra money to schools for new programs. Small schools with multigrade classes rarely have employees who have time to write grants. The County Office comes to the aid of these small districts. Seven small school districts are grouped together to form a cooperative funding group and a consolidated application is sent to the California State Department of Education for 10 different kinds of non-competitive grants. These grants are available to all school districts in California. Some other examples of grants received and/or in progress are: "Conflict Resolution" - written for Burnt Ranch, Weaverville and Lewiston School Districts. These grants are for grades 4 to 8. A target group of students in each school will be trained in the techniques of helping their peers solve problems peacefully. "Healthy Start" - written for the Trinity High School District and all its feeder schools. Five hundred students, parents and community members were surveyed about the needs of the youth. Target groups were identified and monthly planning meetings were established. This $400,000.00 grant over 4 years will do the following: Increase assets for positive youth involvement in the community. Increase youth employment Increase academic success The County Office provides program support. Many individual school districts are so small they can only afford the basic classroom teachers. Through the County Office a variety of services can be obtained. In December 1999 the Special Education Department of the County Office was providing services to 383 special needs students. Examples of services provided include: Speech and language specialists teach over 100 students in 17 school sites including preschools. Visually impaired students ranging in age from infant to 22 receive instruction designed to allow them to become more independent. Deaf and hearing-impaired students may receive instruction through use of technology and support which allows them access to the regular curriculum. Students who demonstrate a severe discrepancy between ability and achievement and have difficulty processing information may qualify for assistance from a Resource Specialist instructor. Students spend less than half of their day with this instructor and the rest of their day in regular classes. Students with profound disabilities may attend Special Day Classes located at Weaverville Elementary School and Hayfork Elementary School. Here the students receive instruction in life skills that focus on developing independence. Examples of other supplementary service providers are nurses, psychologists, counselors, instructors for gifted students, and music and art instructors. Internet access is provided to each school by the County Office. The general public may access the County Office's web page at http/www.tcoe.trinity.k12.ca.us for a variety of educational information. A few schools have available their current Accountability Report Card. · ; The County Office is actively supporting the communication and coordination between Trinity High School and its feeder schools. Developing successful methods for teaching the "Student Learning Standards" at each grade level from kindergarten through eighth grade is a major emphasis. The proposed 1999/2000 budget expense, general fund, for the operation of the Trinity County Office of Education is $4,277,945. The proposed 1999/2000 budget expense for the operation of the Special Education Department of the Trinity County Office of Education is $2,458,229.
Related Recommendations (1)
R26
- Trinity County Office of Education Every individual school district voiced approval of the services offered by the Trinity County Office of Education. During this time of declining revenue the County Office continues to help each district plan, prepare, and monitor its budget. The Grand Jury applauds the County Office's efforts to keep adequate income flowing into the public schools. From lobbying legislative bodies to grant writing, the employees of the county office have exhibited tireless dedication to their jobs. The County Office continues to help each district offer high quality programs for its students. The supplementary service providers are appreciated by the teachers and students who benefit from their skills. Some concern was voiced over the method of obtaining counseling time at a school. The Grand Jury has been assured that the effectiveness of the new scheduling procedure for counseling services would be reviewed with the administrators of the school districts. The Grand Jury appreciates the County Office's attempts to provide equal educational opportunities for all the children of Trinity County. We support the coordination that is taking place between the Trinity High School administrators and educators from all its feeder schools. We encourage the County Office to create additional curriculum planning teams that would foster equal educational opportunities for all the students of Trinity County. One team could consist of administrators from all the high schools. Later another team could be the administrators from all the high schools meeting with representatives from Shasta College to plan curriculum that would supplement the high schools' course offerings. The Grand Jury urges parents to use the Trinity County Office of Education's Internet address http/www.tcoe.trinity.k12.ca.us to access information on their child's school. The Grand Jury encourages each school to keep its web page up-to-date and informative. The school's current Accountability Report Card is one recommended item to be printed. The Grand Jury appreciates and thanks all employees of the Trinity County Office of Education for their services to this community.
F27
As our Trinity County public school attendance declines, the state's income to our public schools drops. The expense per student for equal educational opportunities is usually higher in a small remote school than in a bigger urban one. Closing small schools is not practical. Bussing students from remote areas would take too much time and spend too many dollars. To survive, small schools in remote areas must have wide community support. ..
Related Recommendations (1)
R27
We encourage our Trinity County citizens to volunteer and/or support in any way possible, their schools. CONCLUSION: In Trinity County from the smallest school to the largest school the teaching staff is creating an academic program that meets the educational needs of our young people. The Grand Jury found the Trinity County schools to be in good repair, clean and with back up programs to deal with most emergencies. The educational plans developed by our Trinity County public school districts and their supporting agencies form a complete circle of care for our young people when the parents of the students step in and close the circle. The Grand Jury thanks all employees and volunteers who give their time and efforts helping our children to become responsible, productive citizens. 30-DAY RESPONSE REQUESTED FROM: Trinity County Board of Supervisors Mr. James French, Trinity County Superintendent of Schools Trinity County Board of Education The Boards of Trustees from the following school districts: Burnt Ranch Coffee Creek Cox Bar Douglas City Junction City Lewiston Trinity Center Weaverville Trinity Union High School Mountain Valley Unified Southern Trinity Joint Unified Frinity County OFFICE OF EDUCATI http://www.tcoe.trinity.k12.ca.us RECEIVED JUL 1 1 2000 SUPERIOR COURT July 7, 2000 JUDGE'S CHAMBERS To: Superior Court Judge Honorable John Letton President, Trinity County School Board, Helen Johnson From: Subject: 1999-2000 Grand Jury Report The board and I have read and agree with the findings of the 1999-2000 Grand Jury. We appreciate their favorable conclusions and will continue to do our best for our students. William F -22- James B. French, Trinity County Superintendent of Schools P.O. Box 1256 • 201 Memorial Drive • Weaverville California 96093-1256 • (530) 623-2861 Fax (530) 623-4489 Trinity County OFFICE OF EDUCAT http://www.tcoe.trinity.k12.ca.us RECEIVED July 20, 2000 To: Superior Court Judge Honorable John Letton President, Trinity County School Board, Helen Johnson From: 1999-2000 Grand Jury Report Subject: The board and I have read and agree with the findings of the 1999-2000 Grand Jury. We appreciate their favorable conclusions and will continue to do our best for our students. president nature Date 7-20-00 Approved: Ayes: Trinity County OFFICE OF EDUCATION http://www.tcoe.trinity.k12.ca.us RECEIVED JUN - 6 2000 To: Superior Court Judge, Honorable John Letton From: Trinity County Supt. of Schools, Jim French Subject: 1999-2000 Grand Jury Report Response I have read "Public Education in Trinity County", the 1999-2000 Grand Jury Report and concur with your finding and recommendations on item 26. Our office is in Phase 1 of a new counseling service model which has taken some time for districts to get used to. We remain receptive to "working out the bugs" to best serve our districts and their students. Additionally, we will work with districts keep school internet webpages update to maximize the communication potential of this powerful resource. I am deeply appreciative of the Grand Jury's work this year and applaud their efforts to better serve our students. Individual school district administrators will respond to the report on their particular school. Thank you. $1106HT -24- James B. French, Trinity County Superintendent of Schools P.O. Box 1256 • 201 Memorial Drive • Weaverville California 96093-1256 • (530) 623-2861 Fax (530) 623-4489 BURNT RANCH SCHOOL DISTRICT Burnt Ranch P. O. Box 39 (School House Road) Burnt Ranch, CA 95527 Bears Dena Magdaleno, Superintendent Telephone: 530-629-2543 Terry Van Houten, Principal Fax: 530-629-2479 RECEIVED Trinity County Court Services JIII 1 1 2000 Presiding Judge of Superior Court Weaverville, CA 96093 SUPERIOR COURT JUDGES CHAMBERS RE: Grand Jury Report on Public Education in Trinity County July 1, 2000 Dear sir: It is my privilege to respond to the Trinity County Grand Jury's Report on Public Education in Trinity County on behalf of Burnt Ranch School. We received a copy and agree. We have a dedicated staff focused on providing quality education to the children of our community. We work with the community to provide many varied educational experiences for people of all ages. Our community will continue to work together to do the very best we can for our children. After reviewing the report, our governing board commended the Grand Jury for its effort. The quality of the report was impressive, and it was very well received. The Chair Dr. Joseph Bottino asked me to express our gratitude to the Grand Jury as your investigation confirms his belief that we have an exceptional school. The Grand jury members who visited our site were professional and left a positive impression with our staff. We in return commend the Grand Jury for the quality of its work as it relates to Burnt Ranch School. Sincerely, Dena Mazdaleno Dena Magdaleno cc: Board of Supervisors Cox Bar School District RECEIVED Post Office Box 529 Big Bar, California 96010 JUN 1 9 2000 (530) 623-6316 SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE'S CHAMBERS Board of Trustees Jason Aslin James Harrigan Craig Thompson Principal Jeanne Hunt June 15, 2000 Dear Honorable Judge Letton, The School Board and myself, along with the staff at Cox Bar School wish to thank the Grand Jury for its efforts. We appreciate the commendations and will continue to serve children to the best of our ability. Sincerely,Jeanne ThunkJeanne Hunt Principal DOUGLAS CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL P.O. Box 280 Douglas City, CA 96024 (530) 623-6350 / FAX (530) 623-3412 RECEIVED JUN 2 6 2000 SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE'S CHAMBERS June 22, 2000 John Letton Superior Court Judge P.O. Drawer 1613 Weaverville, CA 96093 Dear Judge Letton: This letter is in regards to the 1999-2000 grand jury report from the Education Committee. I have read the report of the committee and specifically as it relates to Douglas City Elementary School. We appreciated the time and energy that the Grand Jury Committee members put forth in reviewing our school here at Douglas City, and we are pleased with their generally positive comments. The report was shared and discussed with the Governing Board of the Douglas City Elementary School District at its regular meeting held June 13, 2000. Yours truly, Robert Gravetto Robert C. Gravette, District Superintendent cc: Board of Supervisors JUNCTION CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT 100 Red Hill Road HC2 Box 40 Junction City, California 96048 (530) 623-6381-Phone (530) 623-5652 - Fax RECEIVED JUN 2 0 2000 June 8, 2000 SUPERIOR COURT P. O. Box 1258 Weaverville, California 96093 Dear Superior Court Judge, DU Mountain Valley UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT ٠ UNIFIC Post Office Box 339, Hayfork, California 96041 530 628-5265 Fax: 530 628-5267 BOARD OF TRUSTEES SUPERINTENDENT SСН00 Joan Hair Nora Coon • Jerry Fulton • Debra Lono • Laura McAllister • Cheryl Schofield RECEIVED JUN 2 1 2000 June 19, 2000 SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE'S CHAMBERS Presiding Judge of the Superior Court P.O. Box 1258 Weaverville, CA 96093 Respond to Grand Jury Report Re: To the Presiding Judge to the Superior Court: I have received a copy of the Grand Jury Report and do not dispute any
Additional Recommendations 1
These recommendations are not explicitly linked to specific findings.
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R8- Lewiston School No change is recommended. The Grand Jury congratulates Lewiston School for being named a California Distinguished School for 2000. We praise the community of Lewiston for its active support of the school. We appreciate the variety of experiences the staff is making available to the students as they master their Learning Standards.
Conclusions 1
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CL1CHAMBERS P. 0. Box 1258 Weaverville, California 96093 Dear Superior Court Judge, The Junction City School Board reviewed the 1999-2000 Trinity County Grand Jury Report at its meeting on June 5, 2000. The board agrees with both the findings and
No Responses Found 2
Government entities assigned to respond to this report. No response documents have been linked in our database.
Burnt Ranch Elementary School District
School District
* This report's PDF did not contain easily extractable text and required Optical Character Recognition (OCR) for analysis. There may be minor errors in the extracted findings and recommendations due to OCR limitations with scanned documents.