Something to Celebrate!
Dear Capistrano Unified Community Members,
It is somewhat strange to be part of an organization for only five months and, yet, feel as though I have been with you for a much longer period of time. Perhaps the reason for such a disconnect between time in place and place in time is that there has been so much to learn and do and such open, knowledgeable, and dedicated people to help me do my best to lead such an incredibly fine school district.
With students back in school, athletic and extracurricular activities occurring, a bevy of fund-raising events, and first time meetings with myriad leadership groups, it is obvious to me that despite the economic turndown there is an enthusiasm and commitment throughout CUSD to do whatever is necessary to provide our youngsters with safe and healthy learning environments and strong instructional programs.
If you are not yet aware, Capistrano Unified once again outscored all other large districts in the State of California on the State’s testing program this last year. Using the State’s point system measuring stick, ranging from a low of 200 points to 1000 points, with a state-wide goal of 800 points, CUSD as a total district scored 857. Since 2004, with a district-wide score of 791, Capo has demonstrated continuous progress with the 2009-2010 school year realizing our largest district annual gain of 21 points. An impressive 84% of CUSD schools exceeded the State’s achievement target of 800 and 96% of CUSD schools met or surpassed school-wide growth targets established by the State Department of Education. All six of our comprehensive high schools have API scores over 800. Thirty two of our 37 elementary schools and 11 of our 12 middle schools all have scores over 800. Three of our middle schools scored above 900!
Such data is a testament to the “smart” work of our teachers, site administrators, and a school support staff, all of who directly influence our students on a daily basis. It is also a reflection of the incredible behind-the-scenes services and assistance that hundreds of invisible classified, certificated and administrative professionals provide in order that schools and classrooms can focus on students in an environment that is free of national, state, and local issues. In large part, however, we have our parent and even larger community to thank for contributing to the academic success of our district. Having served in seven districts, five of them in Orange County, during my 40+ year career, I can say with confidence and candor that never have I experienced so many adults wanting the finest education possible for so many children of diverse backgrounds, needs and talents. “Wanting”, however, is one thing………..being willing to contribute expertise, care, resources, and shirt-sleeve assistance is another.
I am awed, impressed, and truly humbled by how much of yourselves so many of you are willing to share.
I am looking forward to meeting and working with many of you to develop a Strategic Plan to guide decision-making and budgeting during these next few years. The times are challenging, but the goals will all deal with the notion of continued and improved success.
Sincerely,
Bobbi Mahler, Ed. D.
Interim Superintendent, CUSD
