Tulare County Grand Jury
2013-2014
From the annual report
The consolidated year-end volume. The individual investigations it contains are listed separately below.
📑 Year-End Report
The full consolidated volume; individual reports are listed below.
Individual reports (11)
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Findings & Recommendations
1 findings
F1:
A student that earns twenty college units to graduate will have attained one-third of the credit for an Associate Degree. Response: We agree with the findings that students are one-third of the way to earning an Associate Degree by completing 20 college units at COS before they graduate from University Preparatory High School.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Tulare County Grand Jury recommends Eleanor Roosevelt Community Learning Center pursue Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accreditation so students qualify for CSU or UC campuses. This recommendation requires further analysis, to be discussed at the November 11th board meeting. In the past, ERCLC has decided not to pursue WASC accreditation because of the limits imposed on our educational program. In general, homeschooling families prefer the flexibility of our program over the benefits of WASC accreditation. It is untrue that our students do not qualify for CSU or UC campuses because we are not WASC accredited. But WASC accreditation does make the process easier, so we will revisit the topic again.
Additional Recommendations
2
Not linked to specific findings.
R2:
The Tulare County Grand Jury recommends Eleanor Roosevelt Community Learning Center provide their Student Handbooks in English and Spanish. This recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future when needed. We currently do no have any students or families that need a Spanish (or any other foreign language) copy of the Student Handbook. Because these documents are continually updated, it does not make fiscal sense to translate a document until it is needed. We appreciate the time and effort dedicated by the Tulare County Grand Jury to improving student learning. Sincerely, Daniel Huecker Director/Superintendent Eleanor Roosevelt Community Learning Center (11/4/2014) Grand Jury - University Preparatory High School Grand Jury Resonse From: Helen Milliorn-Feller To: "[email protected]" CC: Eric Thiessen , John Kelly , Nicole Roch... Date: 11/3/2014 3:37 PM Subject: University Preparatory High School Grand Jury Resonse Letter Attachments: UPHS Grand Jury Response 2014 pdf Dear Tulare Grand Jury, Thank you for being patient with our school. You received our Student-Parent Handbook in English and Spanish today. I am now attaching our Response Letter to your Findings and Recommendations. If you need any other information, please let me know. Sincerely, Helen Helen L. Milliorn-Feller M.A. Vice Principal/Lead Teacher University Preparatory High School 915 S. Mooney Blvd Visalia, CA 93277 (559) 730-2529 (559) 901-8485 University Preparatory High School University 915 S. Mooney Blvd. Visalia, CA 93277 (559) 730-2529 Fax (559) 730-2518 Preparatory November 3, 2014 S. Mooney Blvd. Visalia, CA 93277 Subject: Written Response of University Preparatory High School pursuant to California Penal Code §933© Dear Tulare County Grand Jury: We thank you for visiting University Preparatory High School, and we are always pleased to share with your organization how we are serving the students of Tulare County at our Charter School by helping them earn a high school diploma, while also preparing them for college through the taking of College of the Sequoias (COS) classes. We agree with your findings that we are asking our students to earn 20 college units at The College of the Sequoias as a part of our graduation requirements. We understand this represents one third of the units a college student needs to earn an Associate Degree or to transfer to a four year university. We have also spent an extended period of time rewriting and creating a Student- Parent Handbook in both Spanish and English to help inform parents and help facilitate the acclimation of students to our school.
R3:
In addition to the academic core classes, VTEC offers students hands-on assignments. VTEC High School will proceed with your recommendation regarding the implementation of a Spanish handbook. A Spanish and English handbook will be available to students online prior to November 2014. If you have any questions, please feel free to give me a call at the school office at (559) 622-3212. Sincerely, Vicki Porter Principal, VTEC High School VTEC is a Partnership between Visalia Unified School District and College of the Sequoias 18333K Visalia Technical Early College, 2245 S Linwood St Visalia, CA 93277 559-622-3212 Fax: 559-622-3214
Findings & Recommendations
7 findings
F1:
J. Steven Worthley As the shortage of water increases, the costs to water districts to meet the District Four maintenance requirement challenges increase. When water districts raise consumer prices to offset these fiscal demands, the response by the public is to Mike Ennis conserve water in order to keep the bills down. This becomes a vicious cycle. District Five Response: The Board of Supervisors neither agrees nor disagrees with this 米 finding. This matter is within the jurisdiction of water districts within Tulare County. However, it is generally correct that maintenance costs of public water BOARD STAFF systems could increase during water shortages. Julieta Martinez
F2:
Allison Pierce There is a need for potable water and improvement of basic infrastructure in certain communities. Many low income residents are forced into purchasing bottled water. Those who are unable to purchase or access potable water face Ж certain health risks. Response: The Board of Supervisors partially agrees with the finding. Although CLERK OF there could be health risks associated without potable water, the nature and THE BOARD extent of such health risks may vary and is not certain in all cases. Michelle Baldwin Chief Clerk 米 Administration Bldg. - 19-15-2614 2800 West Burrel Visalia, CA 93291
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Tulare County Grand Jury recommends the County apply for any available Federal and State grants for the affected unincorporated areas needing potable water. Response: The Board of Supervisors agrees with the finding. Tulare County continues to be proactive in its aggressive pursuit of federal and state grants to address the potable water needs of unincorporated communities. Successful examples of these efforts have resulted in the award of numerous grants to Tulare County identified as follows: (a) Seville/Yettem Water Feasibility Study: Award of $691,000 by the California Department of Public Health to determine the feasibility of developing a new source of safe drinking water in the Yettem area. Such drinking water also could serve the Seville area. Completion of this study is expected in December 2015. (b) North County Surface Water Treatment Plant Project Feasibility Project with Orosi Public Utility District: Award of $247,580 by the California Department of Public Health to prepare a feasibility study for the North Tulare County Surface Water Treatment Plant Project. The goal is to determine the cost and scope of a surface water solution to address the drinking water needs of Orosi residents. Completion of this study is expected in December 2014. (c) Seville Water Storage Tank Project: Award of $78,000 by the California Department of Public Health to install and connect a 15,000 gallon storage tank and related equipment designed to increase water supply and pressure in the Seville Water System. This system was placed in court-ordered receivership in 2009 and has been operated by Tulare County since that date. Project completion is expected in November 2014. (d) Seville Water Dispenser Project: Award of $96,000 by the State Water Resources Control Board from state drought relief funds to address water contamination issues in disadvantaged communities. The goal is to fund the installation and operation of a water vending machine that will be connected to a 500 gallon storage tank that will be accessible to residents from the Seville area. The water vending machine is intended to serve Seville from the Fall 2014 through most of 2017. (e) Seville Emergency Bottled Water Distribution Program: Award of $45,000 by the State Water Resources Control Board from state drought relief funds to address water contamination problems in disadvantaged communities. Through the Seville Emergency Bottled Water Distribution Program, bottled water has been distributed to approximately 550 people who reside in homes connected to the Seville Water System. This program is designed to provide a three-month supply of drinking water to this affected population while Tulare County completes installation of the previously described Seville Water Storage Tank and Seville Water Vending Machine. (f) Countywide Emergency Bottled Water Distribution Program: Award of $500,000 by the State Water Resources Control Board from state drought relief funds to address water contamination problems in disadvantaged communities. This program will make bottled water available to income qualified residents living in disadvantaged communities in the unincorporated area with known water contamination, (g) Matheny Tract: Award of $354,000 by the Strategic Growth Council to complete a feasibility analysis of alternatives for wastewater and sewer system consolidation. The goal is to design a feasible plan to connect the Matheny Tract residences to a muni-style wastewater treatment facility. Completion of the analysis is expected in April 2016. (h) Matheny Tract: Award of $223,621 by the Clean Water State Revolving Fund to complete a Wastewater Collection and Disposal Study. The goal is to analyze wastewater collection and disposal options and prepare pre-design documents for Matheny Tract. Completion of the study is expected in May 2015. (i) Plainview Community: Award of $453,000 by the Clean Water State Revolving Fund to complete a Wastewater Collection and Disposal Study. The goal is to analyze wastewater collection and disposal options and prepare pre-design documents for the Plainview community. Completion of the study is expected in May 2015. (j) Monson Community: Award of $180,000 by the California Department of Public Health to complete a Planning Study for Monson. The goal is to identify the governance structure and complete the pre-design engineering report. (k) Kaweah Basin IRWM Implementation Grant: Award of $398,448 by the Department of Water Resources from Proposition 84 funds to identify unused water wells within the Kaweah Sub-Basin. By partnering with local non-profits educational material has been developed to inform property owners of the risks of not properly destroying abandoned wells. The project will properly abandon identified wells at no cost to the property owner to protect groundwater quality in the region. (I) Tulare Lake Basin Disadvantaged Community Water Study: Award of $2,000,000 by the Department of Water Resources from Proposition 84 funds to document, study, and identify potential solutions for water and wastewater challenges in disadvantaged communities throughout the Tulare Lake Basin. This study will publish a report of findings, recommendations, and tools for communities, local and state government, and non-profits to assist in addressing the various and complex water issues faced by disadvantaged communities. Sincerely, Phillip A. Cox, Chairman Tulare County Board of Supervisors RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AGENCY 5961 SOUTH MOONEY BLVD VISALIA, CA. 93277 Michael C. Spata Planning PHONE (559) 624-7000 Public Works Mike Bond Fax (559) 730-2653 Administration Roger Hunt MICHAEL C. SPATA, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR JAKE RAPER JR., AICP, DIRECTOR July 28, 2014 The Honorable Lloyd Hicks Presiding Judge Tulare County Superior Court County Civic Center, Room 303 221 South Mooney Boulevard Visalia, CA 93291 Dear Judge Hicks: On behalf of the Tulare County Resource Management Agency, this responds to the Tulare County Grand Jury's informational request entitled "Water Please!"
F3:
As water pressure decreases and the water table goes down, the levels of arsenic and other contaminants increase. Response: The Board of Supervisors partially agrees with the finding. As water pressure decreases and the water table goes down, there could be a rise in arsenic and other contaminant levels in groundwater; however, the volume, degree to which, location, and subsurface directional movement of arsenic and other contaminants depend on geologic, hydrologic, land use, environmental, and other factors.
F4:
Without more rainwater, the efforts to collect and conserve water will be in vain. Response: The Board of Supervisors disagrees with the finding. Efforts to collect and conserve water are not in vain. To be good stewards of the environment, public and private water management practices should be encouraged irrespective of whether drought conditions exist.
F5:
The water infrastructures of all of the communities in Tulare County are old and need costly repairs and updating. Response: The Board of Supervisors partially agrees with the finding. Although water infrastructure within unincorporated communities is dated, Tulare County, through its Housing Element Update and related infrastructure planning initiatives to be implemented in Fiscal Year 2014/15, will be making a concerted effort to evaluate, among other things, the age, cost and need for water infrastructure improvements in unincorporated communities.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Tulare County Grand Jury recommends that all Tulare County and City agencies review their water conservation programs and implement as deemed necessary. Everyone needs to boost conservation efforts and make more efficient use of existing supplies. Response: The Board of Supervisors agrees with the finding. As part of its ongoing regional, general and community planning efforts, Tulare County will be reviewing and implementing various water conservation policies and programs.
F6:
The City of Lindsay proposes to create additional surface water storage by constructing a levee and excavating a basin to improve efficiency at the water treatment process plant. Response: This finding is not in the purview of the Tulare County Board of Supervisors.
F7:
The upgrade of Visalia's wastewater treatment facility will enable one hundred percent of the wastewater to be recycled. Approximately thirteen million gallons a day of recycled water will be generated by the upgraded Water Conservation Plant. Response: This finding is not in the purview of the Tulare County Board of Supervisors.
Findings & Recommendations
3 findings
F1:
School districts, communities and dedicated individuals rolled up their sleeves and went to work building student cabins, roads, hiking trails, instructional areas and a dining facility. Learning not from a book but from nature itself gives students a better understanding of the importance of nature, their environment and their world. Response: The Tulare County Office of Education and County Superintendent of Schools agree with this finding.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Tulare County Grand Jury recommends SCICON'S organizations, directors and volunteers continue their extraordinary programs and activities on behalf of the youth of Tulare County Response: The Tulare County Office of Education, County Superintendent of Schools and SCICON agree with this finding because SCICON does and will continue to provide extraordinary programs and activities on behalf of the youth of Tulare County. We continue to see an increasing trend in student attendance.
F2:
Students from Tulare County not only learn about nature; they learn to socialize and interact with students from other communities. Response: The Tulare County Office of Education and County Superintendent of Schools agree with this finding.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Tulare County Grand Jury recommends SCICON implement additional Safety measures such as cameras within the village and security personnel. 8-20-2014 Response: The Tulare County Office of Education, County Superintendent of Schools and SCICON agree with this finding/recommendation. The SCICON campus entrance gate is locked and not opened until maintenance staff is on the premise. There is an assigned Village Coordinator to each cabin area who has access to radios and phones 24/7. Students are not allowed to go out at night alone. Additionally, recent E-rate grants will provide for the establishment of better security cameras placed on SCICON campus. The technical aspects of installing cameras in the future and finding the source to implement a higher level of security are currently being examined. We will make note of all the recommendations suggested for improvements to the safety and security of the SCICON campus. We will be sure we share these recommended improvements. Once again, we extend our gratitude to the Tulare County Grand Jury for their diligent efforts in compiling these findings and recommendations. ÷ Tulare County Office of Education Committed to Students, Support and Service October 3,2014 Jim Vidak County Superintendent Tulare County Grand Jury The Honorable Judge Gary Paden of Schools 5963 South Mooney Boulevard County Civic Center, Room 303 Visalia, CA 93277 221 South Mooney Boulevard 2637 W. Burrel Ave. Visalia, CA 93291 P.O. Box 5091 Visalia, California 93278-5091 Tulare County Board of Supervisors 2800 W. Burrel Avenue (559) 733-6300 Visalia, CA 93291 www.tcoe.org RESPONSE TO 2014 TULARE COUNTY GRAND JURY REPORTS Administration Enclosed please find the SCICON response to the Grand Jury findings (559) 733-6301 fax (559) 627-5219 dated June 17,2014. I would like to extend my sincere apology for the late response from the Business Services SCICON administration. With the change in administration it was an (550) 733-6312 important and timely matter that was missed. 59) 737-4378 t. The Tulare County Grand Jury works hard to provide us with recommendations and commendations that help us continue our efforts Human Resources (559) 733-6306 to maintain high standards. fax (559) 627-4670 SCICON appreciates all of your hard work on our behalf. If I can be of further service, please feel free to let me know. Instructional Services Sincerely, (559) 733-6328 fax (559) 737-4378 Special Services Dianne Shew (559) 730-2910 SCICON Administrator fax (559) 730-2511 Enclosures 10.7-2614 ŧ . October 3,2014 Tulare County Grand Jury The Honorable Judge Gary Paden 5963 South Mooney Boulevard County Civic Center, Room 303 Visalia, CA 93277 221 South Mooney Boulevard Visalia, CA 93291 Tulare County Board of Supervisors 2800 W. Burrel Avenue Visalia, CA 93291 Subject: Written Response of SCICON pursuant to California Penal Code 933(c) Report Name: Classroom Beneath the Stars
F٤:
We extend our gratitude to the Tulare County Grand Jury for their diligent efforts in compiling these reports. Our responses to your recommendations include detailed Human Resources information gained through extensive research. (559) 733-6306 fax (559) 627-4670 If I can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact me. Sincerely, Instructional Services (559) 733-6328 fax (559) 737-4378 Jim Vidak Tulare County Superintendent of Schools Special Services 3CICON (559) 730-2910 fax (559) 730-2511 JV:mm Enclosures DECEIVED August 19, 2014 The Honorable Judge Gary S. Mooney Boulevard County Civic Center, Room 303 Visalia CA 93277 221 S. Mooney Boulevard Visalia CA 93291 Tulare County Board of Supervisors 2800 W. Burrel Ave Visalia CA 93291 Written Response of the Tulare County Office of Education pursuant to Subject: California Penal Code § 933(c) Report Name: Classroom Beneath the Stars FINDINGS 1. School districts, communities and dedicated individuals rolled up their sleeves and went to work building student cabins, roads, hiking trails, instructional areas and a dining facility. Learning not from a book but from nature itself gives students a better understanding of the importance of nature, their environment and their world. Response: The Tulare County Office of Education and County Superintendent of Schools agree with this finding. 2. Students from Tulare County not only learn about nature; they learn to socialize and interact with students from other communities. Response: The Tulare County Office of Education and County Superintendent of Schools agree with this finding.
Additional Recommendations
1
Not linked to specific findings.
R59:
737-4378 t. The Tulare County Grand Jury works hard to provide us with recommendations and commendations that help us continue our efforts Human Resources (559) 733-6306 to maintain high standards. fax (559) 627-4670 SCICON appreciates all of your hard work on our behalf. If I can be of further service, please feel free to let me know. Instructional Services Sincerely, (559) 733-6328 fax (559) 737-4378 Special Services Dianne Shew (559) 730-2910 SCICON Administrator fax (559) 730-2511 Enclosures 10.7-2614 ŧ . October 3,2014 Tulare County Grand Jury The Honorable Judge Gary Paden 5963 South Mooney Boulevard County Civic Center, Room 303 Visalia, CA 93277 221 South Mooney Boulevard Visalia, CA 93291 Tulare County Board of Supervisors 2800 W. Burrel Avenue Visalia, CA 93291 Subject: Written Response of SCICON pursuant to California Penal Code 933(c) Report Name: Classroom Beneath the Stars
Findings & Recommendations
13 findings
F1:
General Funds are being used to purchase bottled water. Response: Buena Vista School District agrees with this finding.
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
The Tulare County Grand Jury recommends that all gates be locked during the day in order to further insure the safety of students and faculty. Response: This recommendation will not be implemented at this time. Due to the location of the school office; in the interior of the campus, the front gate must remain unlocked to allow parent and visitor access to the office. In our master planning we are looking at options that will allow us to have a "closed" campus.
R2:
The Tulare County Grand Jury recommends Buena Vista School District apply for funding under Prop 84, Safe Drinking Water Bond Act, for a new well as well as other school districts have done. Response: This recommendation has been implemented. We began the application process for a new well in 2008. The application for the feasibility study was submitted in 2010. The test well and feasibility study were completed in 2012. We just entered into a funding agreement with California Department of Public Health for the construction of a new well. This process will probably take the better part of a year. My hope is to have the new well in by the summer of 2015. Respectfully submitted, となって変きない。 Carole Mederos, Superintendent Buena Vista School District Citrus South Tule School District Excellence in Education 31374 Success Valley Drive Porterville, CA 93257 Phone: Fax: (559) 784-6333 (559) 784-0413 "Gem of the foothills" July 2, 2014 S. Mooney Blvd Visalia, California 93291 RE: RESPONSE TO THE 2013-2014 TULARE COUNTY GRAND JURY FINAL REPORT Tulare County Grand Jury: The Respondent, Citrus South Tule Elementary School District, agrees with the finding. The district is currently taking steps to improve the availability of technology available to our students and to increase parent and community volunteerism, involvement, and participation in our school. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or need further information in this regard. Sincerely, uugu ( David Huchingson Superintendent 17-8-214D Citrus South Tule School District Excellence in Education 31374 Success Valley Drive Phone: Porterville, CA 93257 Fax: (559) 784-6333 (559) 784-0413 "Gem of the foothills" September 8, 2014 S Mooney Blvd Visalia, California 93291 RESPONSE TO THE 2013-2014 TULARE COUNTY GRAND JURY FINAL RE: REPORT Tulare County Grand Jury: In Regard to Finding #1 The Respondent, Citrus South Tule Elementary School District and the Citrus South Tule Elementary School District Board of Trustees, agree with Finding #1. The Citrus South Tule Elementary School District is in need of new technology equipment, but lacks the necessary financial resources for computers and materials. While this has been recognized for some time, the lack of necessary funding has prohibited progress. This need really hit home last spring when the Citrus South Tule Elementary School was faced with administering the Smarter- Balanced Field Test and did not have sufficient computer hardware and technology for students to participate in this program. An arrangement was made with the Towanits Indian Education Center on the Tule River Indian Reservation to use one of their computer labs for Smarter- Balanced Testing. The district recently received a $10,000 grant to use for technology and materials related to implementation of the Common Core State Standards. While this is not a great deal of money, it will get our district started in increasing technology available for student use and provide for Smarter-Balanced testing on campus in the spring of 2015. In August 2014, we terminated our agreement for a T-1 line for internet service and added a DSL connection, subsequently speeding up our capacity for internet services and preparing the way for us to add the wireless network and increased usage of computers by students and staff. The next step is to add modems in all classrooms so that a wireless connection is available in all locations on the campus. The Porterville Unified School District has offered to provide technological advisement for the efficient and economical purchase of complementary equipment and services; serve our current technology needs; and, provide opportunity for 1.22 ED expansion. By the end of 2014, the district will have installed and implement a wireless network throughout the campus and begin adding computer hardware (likely to be Chromebooks) for student use. An application is in process at the present time for additional funding for technology and to improve the broadband capability at Citrus South Tule School. The district will be diligent in seeking additional funds. The Citrus South Tule Elementary School District looks forward to providing increasing technology for student and staff use. In regard to Finding #2: The Respondent, Citrus South Tule Elementary School District and the Citrus South Tule Elementary School District Board of Trustees, agree with Finding# 2. This is a complicated issue for the Citrus South Tule Elementary School District and one with which we have wrestled for some time. From 1998 to 2010. the Citrus South Tule Elementary School provided an after- school program for all students. This program was discontinued in 2010, due to low student attendance. At present, only two students who attend Citrus South Tule Elementary School live within the Citrus South Tule Elementary School District. In excess of 90% of our students reside on the Tule River Indian Reservation. The Tule River Indian Reservation houses the Towanits Indian Education Center which provides a quality after school and holiday tutoring for all students attending our school. Students are bused directly to the Towanits Indian Education Center upon dismissal from school. Our students take advantage of this service on a regular basis, making the offering of an on-site after-school program inefficient at this time. Over the past six months, the district has worked closely with the Towanits Indian Education Center to improve communication and coordination of effort in support of our students learning needs. The Towanits Indian Education Center sends staff into the Citrus South Tule Elementary School at least two days per week to support students in the classroom. Homework packets are provided by Citrus South Tule teachers to the Towanits Indian Education Center on a weekly basis. The school receives wonderful support from the Towanits Indian Education Center staff by their attendance at many our school events and activities. The parents of students attending our school are supportive and appreciative of the services provided by the Towanits Indian Education Center. The Citrus South Tule Elementary School District will continue to monitor this situation and should the need, support, and practicality for such a service arrive, will immediately take action to implement. Should you need additional information in this regard, please contact Citrus South Tule Elementary School District Superintendent, David Huchingson or the Melinda Beer, President, Citrus South Tule Elementary School District Board of Trustees at 559-784-6333. Sincerely, i alvett David Huchingson Sue Qualseth Superintendent Clerk, Citrus South Tule ESD Board of Trustees (in the absence of the Citrus South Tule ESD Board President) Grand Jury
F2:
Limited computers for students and limited internet access deprive students from developing their technology skills and ability to complete Common Core testing. Response: We agree with the finding, and have purchased new computers for each classroom, as well as installed wireless connections within the school in order to take advantage of new fiber optic lines.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Tulare County Grand Jury recommends Buena Vista School District apply for funding under Prop 84, Safe Drinking Water Bond Act, for a new well as well as other school districts have done. Response: This recommendation has been implemented. We began the application process for a new well in 2008. The application for the feasibility study was submitted in 2010. The test well and feasibility study were completed in 2012. We just entered into a funding agreement with California Department of Public Health for the construction of a new well. This process will probably take the better part of a year. My hope is to have the new well in by the summer of 2015. Respectfully submitted, となって変きない。 Carole Mederos, Superintendent Buena Vista School District Citrus South Tule School District Excellence in Education 31374 Success Valley Drive Porterville, CA 93257 Phone: Fax: (559) 784-6333 (559) 784-0413 "Gem of the foothills" July 2, 2014 S. Mooney Blvd Visalia, California 93291 RE: RESPONSE TO THE 2013-2014 TULARE COUNTY GRAND JURY FINAL REPORT Tulare County Grand Jury: The Respondent, Citrus South Tule Elementary School District, agrees with the finding. The district is currently taking steps to improve the availability of technology available to our students and to increase parent and community volunteerism, involvement, and participation in our school. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or need further information in this regard. Sincerely, uugu ( David Huchingson Superintendent 17-8-214D Citrus South Tule School District Excellence in Education 31374 Success Valley Drive Phone: Porterville, CA 93257 Fax: (559) 784-6333 (559) 784-0413 "Gem of the foothills" September 8, 2014 S Mooney Blvd Visalia, California 93291 RESPONSE TO THE 2013-2014 TULARE COUNTY GRAND JURY FINAL RE: REPORT Tulare County Grand Jury: In Regard to Finding #1 The Respondent, Citrus South Tule Elementary School District and the Citrus South Tule Elementary School District Board of Trustees, agree with Finding #1. The Citrus South Tule Elementary School District is in need of new technology equipment, but lacks the necessary financial resources for computers and materials. While this has been recognized for some time, the lack of necessary funding has prohibited progress. This need really hit home last spring when the Citrus South Tule Elementary School was faced with administering the Smarter- Balanced Field Test and did not have sufficient computer hardware and technology for students to participate in this program. An arrangement was made with the Towanits Indian Education Center on the Tule River Indian Reservation to use one of their computer labs for Smarter- Balanced Testing. The district recently received a $10,000 grant to use for technology and materials related to implementation of the Common Core State Standards. While this is not a great deal of money, it will get our district started in increasing technology available for student use and provide for Smarter-Balanced testing on campus in the spring of 2015. In August 2014, we terminated our agreement for a T-1 line for internet service and added a DSL connection, subsequently speeding up our capacity for internet services and preparing the way for us to add the wireless network and increased usage of computers by students and staff. The next step is to add modems in all classrooms so that a wireless connection is available in all locations on the campus. The Porterville Unified School District has offered to provide technological advisement for the efficient and economical purchase of complementary equipment and services; serve our current technology needs; and, provide opportunity for 1.22 ED expansion. By the end of 2014, the district will have installed and implement a wireless network throughout the campus and begin adding computer hardware (likely to be Chromebooks) for student use. An application is in process at the present time for additional funding for technology and to improve the broadband capability at Citrus South Tule School. The district will be diligent in seeking additional funds. The Citrus South Tule Elementary School District looks forward to providing increasing technology for student and staff use. In regard to Finding #2: The Respondent, Citrus South Tule Elementary School District and the Citrus South Tule Elementary School District Board of Trustees, agree with Finding# 2. This is a complicated issue for the Citrus South Tule Elementary School District and one with which we have wrestled for some time. From 1998 to 2010. the Citrus South Tule Elementary School provided an after- school program for all students. This program was discontinued in 2010, due to low student attendance. At present, only two students who attend Citrus South Tule Elementary School live within the Citrus South Tule Elementary School District. In excess of 90% of our students reside on the Tule River Indian Reservation. The Tule River Indian Reservation houses the Towanits Indian Education Center which provides a quality after school and holiday tutoring for all students attending our school. Students are bused directly to the Towanits Indian Education Center upon dismissal from school. Our students take advantage of this service on a regular basis, making the offering of an on-site after-school program inefficient at this time. Over the past six months, the district has worked closely with the Towanits Indian Education Center to improve communication and coordination of effort in support of our students learning needs. The Towanits Indian Education Center sends staff into the Citrus South Tule Elementary School at least two days per week to support students in the classroom. Homework packets are provided by Citrus South Tule teachers to the Towanits Indian Education Center on a weekly basis. The school receives wonderful support from the Towanits Indian Education Center staff by their attendance at many our school events and activities. The parents of students attending our school are supportive and appreciative of the services provided by the Towanits Indian Education Center. The Citrus South Tule Elementary School District will continue to monitor this situation and should the need, support, and practicality for such a service arrive, will immediately take action to implement. Should you need additional information in this regard, please contact Citrus South Tule Elementary School District Superintendent, David Huchingson or the Melinda Beer, President, Citrus South Tule Elementary School District Board of Trustees at 559-784-6333. Sincerely, i alvett David Huchingson Sue Qualseth Superintendent Clerk, Citrus South Tule ESD Board of Trustees (in the absence of the Citrus South Tule ESD Board President) Grand Jury
F3:
Waukena School District is on the waiting list for Proposition 84 funding. Response: We agree with the finding, and have since received notice that our funding for a new test well has been approved.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Tulare County Grand Jury recommends Waukena Joint Union Elementary School District negotiate with Tulare County Office of Education for a full time Resource Specialist to meet the need of the students. Response: The recommendation was implemented in the past years of 2010- 2014 as part of adoption of the "Transformational Model" of NCLB. A current request for continuation of a full time resource specialist has been implemented (approved) by the Tulare County Office of Education. 2013-14 Tulare Grand Jury Response from Waukena Joint Union Elementary Board of Trustees "Small School Districts"
F4:
The Revenue Limit per ADA is $6,088 and there is a Total Revenue Limit of $2,130,481. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Tulare County Grand Jury recommends Columbine School District solicit for volunteers to create an after school program that is designed to not only help students with homework but to help students with club activities or provide an after school activity in general for the students. Response: This recommendation will not be implemented because it isn't warranted. The board doesn't want an after school program run by volunteers. In addition, Columbine has lots of after school activities already. Math Field Day practice: two to three months, several times a week in grades 4-6. Odyssey of the Mind team planning; two teams, four to six months. • Remediation for math and language arts in grades 4-8, six ten- week sessions, twice a week.
F5:
School Board meetings are scheduled for the second Wednesday of each month. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding. However, in February and June the regular Board meetings are held on the third week.
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R5:
The Tulare County Grand Jury recommends Columbine School District provide their Student Handbook in both English and Spanish. Response: This recommendation has been implemented. The 2014-15 Handbook has been translated into Spanish. Copies have been provided to the appropriate families. . the second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second second s Liberty Elementary School 1771 E. Pacific Ave., Tulare, CA 93274 Superintendent /Principal Keri Montoya 559.686.1675, 559.686.2879 (FAX) August 15, 2014 Honorable Judge Gary Paden County Civic Center, Room 303 221 S. Mooney Blvd. Visalia, CA 93291 Dear Honorable Judge Gary Paden: We are writing in regards to the Grand Jury recommendations for Liberty Elementary. We, as a board, agree with both of the findings. The first recommendation given by the Grand-Jury is for Liberty Elementary to contract with the Tulare City School District lunch services when the Visalia Unified School District contract is complete. This recommendation cannot be implemented because it is not warranted. Liberty Elementary had previously contacted Tulare City School District (TCSD) regarding this matter. TCSD is not interested in providing Liberty Elementary with lunch services. The second recommendation given by the Grand Jury is for Liberty Elementary to continue to pursue linking their water supply to the City of Tulare and discontinue the use of well water. This recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted. The City of Tulare is unable to provide Liberty Elementary with city water. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. Sincerely, Verweley Dr. James Guadagni Roard President Palo Verde Union Elementary School District's Response to the Tulare Grand Jury Findings and Recommendations on: Small School of Tulare County Date Board Approved: September 10, 2014 Board President Bill Benson Fill JuneSignature Palo Verde Union Elementary School District's Response to the Tulare Grand Jury Findings and Recommendations "Small School Districts" 9-16 2014
F6:
Student Handbooks are available in English and Spanish. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding. However, the state has changed the funding formula for school revenues and the Revenue Limit no longer exists as the Local Control Funding Formula has replaced the Revenue Limit.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
Student Handbooks are available in English and Spanish. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding. However, the state has changed the funding formula for school revenues and the Revenue Limit no longer exists as the Local Control Funding Formula has replaced the Revenue Limit.
F7:
School Technology is increasing with the addition of two new computer labs with 25 computers in each lab. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding. However, since the report was taken, the district has added another computer lab and all three labs have 34 computers.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7:
School Technology is increasing with the addition of two new computer labs with 25 computers in each lab. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding. However, since the report was taken, the district has added another computer lab and all three labs have 34 computers.
F8:
The Palo Verde School District is committed to spending $106,000 on technology in the next two years. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding. 9-16 2014
Related Recommendations (1)
R8:
The Palo Verde School District is committed to spending $106,000 on technology in the next two years. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding. 9-16 2014
F9:
The school has a new building entitled the "East Wing", which houses the computer lab and a science lab. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding. However, the new wing is called the 800 wing and houses a computer lab, science lab and four classrooms.
Related Recommendations (1)
R9:
The school has a new building entitled the "East Wing", which houses the computer lab and a science lab. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding. However, the new wing is called the 800 wing and houses a computer lab, science lab and four classrooms.
F10:
The Palo Verde School District purchased 9.55 adjacent acres of land for new athletic facilities. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10:
The Palo Verde School District purchased 9.55 adjacent acres of land for new athletic facilities. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding.
F11:
A new 13,000 square foot gymnasium/multipurpose room is being built with a completion date of May 2014. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding.
Related Recommendations (1)
R11:
A new 13,000 square foot gymnasium/multipurpose room is being built with a completion date of May 2014. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding.
F12:
The school has an asbestos and lead problem in the office and in some older classrooms. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees does not agree with this finding. The office building has recently been modernized and the lead and asbestos materials have been eliminated during the construction project. Asbestos is present in the tiles in some classrooms and on the underlying layers of paint in some of the older classrooms. However, there is no exposure to "friable" asbestos materials or exposed lead materials which pose a safety threat to students of staff. As required by law the district conducted a Three-Year AHERA Inspection in the summer of 2013 and no "friable" asbestos materials were present in any of the classrooms. The district will continue to monitor asbestos, lead, mold and other hazardous material levels in all school buildings and water sources and take appropriate remediation measures.
Related Recommendations (1)
R12:
The school has an asbestos and lead problem in the office and in some older classrooms. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees does not agree with this
F13:
The School Accountability Report Card is available on the Palo Verde School District website. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding.
Related Recommendations (1)
R13:
The School Accountability Report Card is available on the Palo Verde School District website. The Palo Verde Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees agrees with this finding. Recommendations:
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Findings & Recommendations
2 findings
F1:
There are several instances where a child becomes the responsibility of the county and a placement determination is needed. There are situations where the child may be a victim of physical child abuse. From time to time the child may be a victim of general child neglect. Other times, a child may be subjected to emotional abuse. On occasion, children become the victims of sexual abuse. There are even situations where the caregiver was absent or incapacitated. Ultimately, all these cases end up in the Child Welfare System.
F2:
Child Welfare and Probation Departments both have the objective of family unification as a pre-placement goal within one year.
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Findings & Recommendations
2 findings
F1:
The Tulare County Public Defender’s Office exceeds the standards set by the United States Department of Justice on Standards for both Felony and Misdemeanor caseloads per attorney.
F2:
The current pay scale has not been increased for several years.
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Findings & Recommendations
2 findings
F1:
There are many benefits to solar energy such as lower energy costs, environmental, renewal resources and clean energy.
F2:
The schools are doing their part to become more energy efficient. TULARE COUNTY GRAND JURY REPORT 2013-2014
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Findings & Recommendations
1 findings
F1:
Accomplishment of the objectives of the Yettem-Button Ditch, Cottonwood Creek Ditch and Seville-Sontag Ditch Projects is pending.
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Findings & Recommendations
7 findings
F1:
As the shortage of water increases, the costs to water districts to meet the maintenance requirement challenges increase. When water districts raise consumer prices to offset these fiscal demands, the response by the public is to conserve water in order to keep the bills down. This becomes a vicious cycle.
F2:
There is a need for potable water and improvement of basic infrastructure in certain communities. Many low income residents are forced into purchasing bottled water. Those who are unable to purchase or access potable water face certain health risks.
F3:
As water pressure decreases and the water table goes down, the levels of arsenic and other contaminants increase.
F4:
Without more rainwater, the efforts to collect and conserve water will be in vain.
F5:
The water infrastructures of all of the communities in Tulare County are old and need costly repairs and updating.
F6:
The City of Lindsay proposes to create additional surface water storage by constructing a levee and excavating a basin to improve efficiency at the water treatment process plant.
F7:
The upgrade of Visalia’s wastewater treatment facility will enable one hundred percent of the wastewater to be recycled. Approximately thirteen million gallons a day of recycled water will be generated by the upgraded Water Conservation Plant.
* 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.