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Aaron Resendez | Get Your Golf Clubs Ready

Shared by Aaron Resendez Superintendent of the McFarland Unified School District The 2nd Annual McFarland Athletic Booster Football Fundraiser Golf Tournament is Back! MCFARLAND –  Fore! It’s time to tee off for a good cause and chip in to support McFarland High School Athletics. The Cougar Booster Club is thrilled to announce the return of the 2nd Annual McFarland High School Athletics Fundraiser Golf Tournament on Friday, June 2, 2023, at the North Kern Country Club. Last year, the tournament was a huge success raising over $5,000 to support the athletic programs. This year’s goal is to reach over $10,000 in sponsorships. Golf enthusiasts and supporters of McFarland High School Athletics are invited to register their teams of four at a fee of $125 per person before the deadline on Friday, May 26, 2023. Registration forms are available by emailing head football coach Norm Brown at Norbrown@mcfarland.k12.ca.us. The tournament will feature a shotgun start at noon, followed by a dinner and raffle. Participants can win prizes for the longest drive, closest to the pin, and more. All proceeds from the event will provide essential resources for McFarland High School athletic l teams, including equipment, uniforms, and training facilities. “The 2nd Annual McFarland Football Fundraiser Golf Tournament is a fantastic opportunity to support our football team while enjoying a great day out on the golf course,” said Kiley Carrillo, president of the Cougar Booster Club. “We are excited to bring the tournament back this year and hope to see even more people join us for a fun-filled day of golf, food, and prizes.” In addition to raising funds, the tournament is a fun-filled day of golf, food, and prizes. Last year’s event featured over 70 golfers, with prizes awarded to the top teams. For more information, contact: Norm Brown  (408) 314 – 6448  Norbrown@mcfarland.k12.ca.us Kiley Carrillo (661) 699-6397 cougarboosterclub21@gmail.com Originally published here: https://askaaronresendez.com/get-your-golf-clubs-ready/

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Aaron Resendez | Recognizing Excellence in Academics: The Importance of Valedictorian(s)

Shared by Aaron Resendez Superintendent of the McFarland Unified School District From UCLA to Notre Dame, McFarland High School valedictorians represent the District’s academic success at the highest level following their graduation. These trailblazing high-achieving students have performed at an exceptional level, making a GPA of 4.5 or above. Contrary to years ago, when only one valedictorian was selected, McFarland honors a several students who have crossed the threshold and earned the right to be called a valedictorian. The honor of valedictorian opens up many opportunities, a factor for some universities with merit scholarships exclusive to valedictorians. If you are a valedictorian, greater financial aid support will likely to be secured. It is important to aid that opportunity to as many students as possible across the highest academic echelon.  While the title of valedictorian will be awarded to 17 students in 2023, the honor of giving the graduation speech is awarded to only two. When selecting the final two, the students answered a set of questions and presented them to principals and administrators that were not from McFarland High School. Then, ranked by the rubric, the final two would impart a graduation message to their peers.  The valedictorians of McFarland High School shine as a beacon of excellence to their peers and positively impact on the school’s reputation. As a school, when we honor the brightest scholars, we send a message that we value academic achievement, appealing to prospective new families and students ready to join our great community.  Recognizing high GPAs attracts quality resources to the school, with potential donors and grants more likely to support the school with funds, scholarships, and equipment. This improves the school’s overall environment, benefiting the student body. As the end of the year rapidly approaches, the McFarland Unified School District celebrates all our scholars who show no bounds in the lengths they achieve in the realm of academics. Originally published here: https://askaaronresendez.com/recognizing-excellence-in-academics-the-importance-of-valedictorians/

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Aaron Resendez | Donuts For a Cause: A McFarland Community Collaboration

Shared by Aaron Resendez Superintendent of the McFarland Unified School District MCFARLAND – In an initiative to raise funds for McFarland Unified School District students, the nearby North Kern State Prison sold donuts for a cause. The majority of the proceeds went to the McFarland High School multimedia program, bringing the community together to support the students. The funds raised from the freshly-baked goods will support the development of a news video studio with a green screen, elevating the educational opportunities that foster innovation and technology. The prison recently donated nearly $2,500 in athletic equipment to the junior high school, furthering the positive outreach of the facility towards the nearby student population. The initiative benefits the school and its students by fostering a sense of pride in giving back to the community behind bars and ultimately uniting them in an uplifting project that promotes practical skills like fundraising. Superintendent Resendez said he is grateful for the collaboration and impact of the fundraiser. “I appreciate Warden Kevin Hixon and the North Kern State Prison staff for investing in our schools and our kids because they recognize the importance of being proactive in reaching the youth early on to prevent them from ending up in the prison system,” said Aaron Resendez, superintendent. “They want to invest in programs, keeping kids in school, involved in athletics and extracurricular activities to create pathways and opportunities for a successful future.” About the North Kern State Prison: North Kern State Prison is a medium-security prison in Kern County, Calif., operating since 1993. The prison is one of the largest employers in the McFarland area, with a mission to promote the facilitation of successful rehabilitation of incarcerated individuals back into the community. Originally published here: https://askaaronresendez.com/donuts-for-a-cause-a-mcfarland-community-collaboration/

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Aaron Resendez | Managing the Use of Cell Phones in Schools

Shared by Aaron Resendez Superintendent of the McFarland Unified School District Ring, Ring! Higher Student Engagement Calling: Managing the Use of Cell Phones in Schools During the isolated days of the pandemic, screens were a significant part of children’s everyday education, with virtual meetings replacing traditional classrooms.  Now that we have transcended the pandemic era and have returned to traditional schooling, managing and navigating students’ use of screen time on cell phones is a challenge. Similar to the masks of the pandemic era, cellphones can create a social barrier, leading to higher social isolation within the teenage demographic. With an over-reliance on cellphones among teenagers, interpersonal communication is at an all-time low. In a digital age where cellphones prevail, what is the solution to successfully managing the use of cellphones in schools? When exploring ways to manage cell phones in schools, McFarland High School has piloted using YONDR (https://www.overyondr.com) pouches as part of a balanced solution. In addition, putting their cellphones in a sealed pouch, students can retain control of their cellphones, but they are not able to use them during the day. Putting the cellphones away this mitigates the amount of time educators are spending on policing cellphone use and puts the emphasis back on what truly matters-education. Rather than spend time physically taking away and monitoring dozens of phones, teachers can tell students to put the phones back in their pouches.  While cellphones can be a distraction, they can also be viewed as a necessary connection to the outside world and important contacts like their families. IIn today’s social climate, families understandably feel a heightened sense of security knowing they can contact their children. Allowing the phone to remain in possession of the student physically enables students to feel a level of control still, even if they can’t use it whenever they want. In addition, by implementing a system involving families and staff concerns, students are put in a better position to learn more effectively.  Let’s face it: we all use our phones for multiple tasks daily, from checking the weather to calculating a tip for a server. As society grows in technology and innovation, we want to take advantage of the resources available to make our lives easier. However, when it comes to the growth and development of students in their formative years, especially post-pandemic, regulated cell phone use in schools is needed to enhance student engagement. As educators, implementing balanced solutions like the pouch concept is a step toward increasing our youth’s interpersonal communication skills. There is a time and a place for everything, including cell phones. As McFarland High students grow in their educational journey transitioning into the real world, our educators must ensure they are as prepared as possible. Whether it takes a cell phone pouch or another method to maintain high levels of student engagement, we are committed to creating the best environment for our students to blossom and thrive! Originally published here: https://askaaronresendez.com/managing-the-use-of-cell-phones-in-schools/

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Aaron Resendez | BIOGRAPHY

Aaron Resendez’s love for his community is undeniable. The superintendent of the McFarland Unified School District is enthusiastic about ensuring his students have access and opportunity to the world around them. The small town district serves 3,500 students in a tight-knit agricultural community located two hours north of Los Angeles. That’s what motivated him to seek big opportunities for students in the small town. MUSD has partnered with Bakersfield College to offer an Early College Program that allows McFarland High School students, beginning in their 9th-grade year, to take college courses and earn college credits. That effort led to the program being recognized with the California Department of Education’s Inaugural Exemplary Dual Enrollment program award. Not bad, said the self-proclaimed “junior college kid.” “We want to make sure we are producing a student that is college and/or career ready,” he said. “That’s why we want to make sure we provide the opportunity to empower the student to make their own decision.” “I think the kids here in McFarland deserve just to have as good of facilities, projects, and programs as anywhere else,” said Resendez. But the opportunities for students in McFarland abound for students throughout the District from youth recreation programs to award-winning extracurricular programs under his leadership. Resendez is a seasoned educator who has worked in the school system for over 20 years, cultivating knowledge and experience working with a range of staff and students. Outside of his role as Superintendent for McFarland, he has served as Assistant Superintendent and Director of Special Education for McFarland Unified School District. He’s served as superintendent since 2018. Originally published here: https://askaaronresendez.com/aaron-resendez-biography/

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Aaron Resendez | SUPERINTENDENTS: The Districts Lead Communicator

Aaron Resendez can talk with the best of them, especially about the McFarland Unified School District. The Superintendent of the small town district of just under 3,500 students is genuine about his passion for the students and the families that make up the tight-knit agricultural community located two hours north of Los Angeles. So when a crew of three from San Joaquin Valley Transparency recently stopped by the district offices equipped with cameras inquiring about “What is this place?” Resendez was happy to oblige. San Joaquin Valley Transparency visits public agencies and reviews their familiarity with the First Amendment. Most agencies freeze, become agitated, and escalate the situation from the other published videos. It could have been a “gotcha” moment. But not for Resendez. Resendez flipped the encounter and turned it into an opportunity to share with the public his passion and knowledge for everything McFarland Unified. For 59 minutes, Resendez gushed about McFarland. But Resendez didn’t talk just to talk. He communicated with purpose. And he did it with four cameras thrust into his face. Like it or not, Superintendents are their district’s lead communicators setting the tone for communications. Yes, Resendez has all the communications/engagement qualifications outlined in the American Association of School Administrators Professional Standards for Superintendency, but it goes a step further. Resendez understands what it means to be an effective communicator and is calm, poised, articulate, and passionate. For Resendez, communicating comes naturally, in part because his Why and Messaging are interconnected. He is passionate, raved about the students and staff in the district, and delivers the message in a relatable, down-to-earth manner. Resendez doesn’t just tell us what they do in McFarland; he also shares why they do it. As lead communicators, it is essential to remember that you are the face of your district and as such, remember to: Articulate your why Embrace communication Remember communication is a two-way function Keep students at the forefront   For more information on Superintendent Communication, we recommend Larry Ascough’s The School Superintendent as Lead Communicator three-part series (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3). For more tips on how to handle the media, we recommend reading our Command the Camera blog. Originally published here: https://askaaronresendez.com/superintendents-the-districts-lead-communicator/

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Aaron Resendez | Afterschool and summer programs

Shared by Aaron Resendez, Superintendent of the McFarland Unified School District Aaron Resendez of the McFarland Unified School District emphasizes that afterschool and summer programs are essential for students, their families, and the community. Aaron Resendez notes that these programs provide opportunities for McFarland Unified School District students to engage in learning, physical activity, and social interaction outside regular school hours. Academics The McFarland CHAMPS Program, or CHAMPS Afterschool Program (ASES), is designed to provide support and enrichment opportunities for McFarland School District students in 1st through 6th grade. Aaron Resendez, Superintendent, notes that the program offers homework assistance in language arts, mathematics, history, social sciences, computer training, and science, ensuring students have the resources they need to succeed academically.  Additionally, the CHAMPS Program offers various enrichment activities, including board games, arts and crafts, computer time, and library visits. Throughout the year, parents and community members are also invited to share their talents with McFarland Unified School District students, offering a range of diverse and engaging activities. The program runs promptly after the regular school day until 6 p.m., providing a safe and supportive environment for students to continue learning and growing after school. The McFarland CHAMPS Program is committed to fostering its participants’ academic and personal development and is proud to serve the McFarland community. There is also the SES Extended Day Program. Aaron Resendez shares that it is an initiative that provides free reading and math tutoring to eligible elementary, middle school, and high school students in the McFarland School District, McFarland, CA. The program is aimed at supporting low-income families whose children attend a Title I school the State has designated to need improvement for more than one year. While there is a high demand for tutoring, the program is limited to approximately 200 students selected based on need (FFB, BB, B). The program offers flexible tutoring schedules, with extra help provided before or after school, on weekends, or during the summer to help students reach their full academic potential. Performing Arts McFarland School District is proud to offer MYPASS, or McFarland Youth Performing Arts After School, a district-wide afterschool program designed to promote creativity and cultural awareness in our students. This program allows students in grades 1-5 to learn different folkloric dances of Mexico, while students in grades 6-8 can participate in a Mariachi group. High school students in grades 9-12 can join the Chorus group. Through MYPASS, students can explore different forms of performing arts and develop their talents in a supportive and collaborative environment. We believe that this program helps our students grow as performers and fosters an appreciation of diverse cultures and traditions. Sports At McFarland School District in McFarland, CA, Aaron Resendez, Superintendent, is committed to creating opportunities for physical development and promoting teamwork through our competitive sports programs. As part of this commitment, we have established  seasonal elementary youth sports programs and added Physical Education teachers at all three elementary schools, which began with football and have since expanded to include wrestling, track, and basketball. The elementary youth sports program seasons run from August through early June. Afterschool and summer programs are important for students, families, and the community. These programs provide academic enrichment, social and emotional learning, health and wellness opportunities, a safe and supportive environment, and parental engagement. Originally published here: https://askaaronresendez.com/afterschool-and-summer-programs/

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Aaron Resendez | McFarlands Farm-to-School Program

Shared by Aaron Resendez, Superintendent of the McFarland Unified School District McFarland’s Farm-to-School Program: Elevating Access to Nutrition One School at a Time In an effort to further nutritional impact, the McFarland Unified School District’s Farm-to-School Program is paving the way to a healthier future for the community. The program is funded by a $74,000 grant to provide California-produced/minimally processed foods to all McFarland students. As a result of the funding, McFarland students have successfully impacted the community, traveling to various schools to distribute fresh produce and nutritional knowledge. On their site visits, McFarland agriculture students distribute food and provide a memorable educational experience at the Mobile Farmers Market trailer, equipped with educational flyers, food-to-go, and educational activities.   “The students in McFarland deserve delicious, healthy food options. California is the leader in food production, so it makes sense to provide our students access to it. The Farm-to-School Program has given us the means to educate and provide our students with the amazing foods grown and produced in California,” said agriculture teacher Nick Griffith.  Over the past two years, educational advancements have been increasingly made, like the Central Kitchen, which has begun distributing strawberries and blueberries to the school sites. Additionally, purchases like beef jerky and a variety of almonds can be expected to be delivered in the coming weeks, as well as a food packaging machine. With the success of the Farm-to-School Program, McFarland Unified School District plans to continue raising nutritional awareness at other schools in the upcoming weeks with more onsite opportunities. “The McFarland Unified School District is honored by the hard work and dedication of our students and staff to make the Farm-to-School Program such a success. By creating greater nutritional pathways to excellence, our community becomes stronger and healthier than ever before,” said superintendent Aaron Resendez. Originally published here: https://askaaronresendez.com/mcfarlands-farm-to-school-program/

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Aaron Resendez | Student mental health

Shared by Aaron Resendez, Superintendent of the McFarland Unified School District As superintendent of the McFarland Unified School District in Kern County, California, Aaron Resendez understands that there are times when parents may be concerned about their children’s mental health and well-being. The pandemic has highlighted the importance of mental health, and we must understand how to support our struggling McFarland Unified School District students. Aaron Resendez discusses how parents, teachers, and other students can help and understand the students in need. Recognize the signs. First and foremost, it is important to recognize the signs of mental health issues in our children. These signs may include changes in behavior, mood swings, difficulty sleeping, changes in eating habits, and a decline in academic performance. Speaking with your child, asking them how they are feeling, and listening without judgment is important. If you notice any concerning signs, speaking with a mental health professional may be helpful. Create a space for expression. Teachers can also play an important role in supporting students’ mental health. Teachers need to create a safe and supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable discussing their emotions and concerns. Teachers can also offer accommodations to students struggling with mental health issues, such as additional time on assignments or flexible due dates. Peers can help too.  It is also important for other students to support their peers who may be struggling with mental health issues. This can be as simple as being a good listener and offering a supportive ear. Students can also help reduce mental health stigma by talking openly about their own struggles and encouraging others to seek help when needed. Supporting good health.  Another way to support students’ mental health is to encourage healthy habits. This may include encouraging students to get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly. These healthy habits can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.  Finally, it is important to know when to seek additional help. If your child is struggling with mental health issues, it may be helpful to seek the guidance of a mental health professional. Many resources are available, such as school counselors, community mental health clinics, and online resources. It is important to take mental health seriously and seek help when needed. Supporting students’ mental health is a community effort that involves parents, teachers, and other students. By working together, we can ensure that our students receive the support they need to thrive in and outside of the classroom. It is important to recognize the signs of mental health issues, to create a safe and supportive learning environment, and to encourage healthy habits. If you have concerns about your child’s mental health, please do not hesitate to contact a mental health professional for guidance and support. Free helplines:  National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1 800 273-TALK (8255) Crisis Text Line–Text: HELLO to 741741  Local Suicide Hotline: 1 800 991 5272 National Hotline for deaf via TTY, dial: 800 799 4889 AIDS/HIV Hotline: 1 800 367 2437 AlaTeen: 661-322-1102  Bakersfield Survivor Support: Group 661 868 1552 Bakersfield Crisis Pregnancy Center: 661 326 1907 Bakersfield Gay and Lesbian Center: 661 843 7995 Domestic Violence Hotline: 1 800 799 7233 Drug and Alcohol Hotline: 1 800 662 4357 National Runaway Switchboard: 1 800 786 2929 Rape, Abuse, Incest Hotline: 1 800 656 4673 Self-Injury Hotline: 1 800 366 8288 Teen Crisis Line: 1 800 852 8336 Aaron Resendez Aaron Resendez Superintendent  McFarland Unified School District McFarland School District McFarland School District McFarland CA Originally published here: https://askaaronresendez.com/student-mental-health/

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Aaron Resendez | Kern County superintendent speaks on teacher shortage

Shared by Aaron Resendez BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/FOX58) —  Many workers in the United States and California are facing job shortages these days, whether it’s the need for police officers, firefighters, nurses, pilots, or lawyers in the district attorney’s office.  The need for teachers is no different. “I think there’s a lot of people that have kind of factored themselves out of the job market and I’m not sure if we’ve seen the end of the implications related to that,” Aaron Resendez, Superintendent of the McFarland Unified School District said. Resendez says part of the problem is money. “When we’re looking at teacher recruitment, but also retention pay has a lot to do with it.  Right now, I’ve read we’re hitting a record low affordability in the housing market,” Superintendent Resendez said. California Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi of Torrance proposed a bill in the state assembly to raise pay for teachers statewide by 50% over the next seven years.  He wants the state to increase funds for the local control funding formula by 50% to pay for it. Superintendent Aaron Resendez says it’s not just about money though.  He thinks part of the problem is that laws need to change so that schools can employ teachers who are in the process of getting credentialed. “I think it’s at least a taking a look at the university system, the college system so that we can find some ways to streamline the process so that during the course of what would traditionally be a four-year bachelor’s degree, that we can work in a teaching credential,” Superintendent Resendez said. 35th district Assemblymember, Jasmeet Bains sent her thoughts on the proposal to increase teacher pay.  She sent Eyewitness News this statement: “Anything we can do to pay teachers more is a good idea.  Combining additional resources for our schools with a well-deserved pay raise for our teachers makes all the sense in the world.  It is important we get the details right so that we don’t over-promise and under-deliver.  I am hopeful we can get this right.” People interested in becoming a teacher in Kern County can go to www.teachkern.org and someone with the Teacher Development Program will contact you. Originally published here: https://askaaronresendez.com/kern-county-superintendent-speaks-on-teacher-shortage/

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Aaron Resendez| One Elementary Schools Career Day Will Make You Wish You Were a Kid Again!

Shared by Aaron Resendez MCFARLAND — The second annual Career Day at Kern Avenue Elementary is not your average school event. With local community members sharing insights and advice about their professions, students in fourth through sixth grade are discovering that the possibilities are endless when it comes to their future career paths. U.S. Congressman David Valadao joined area experts on April 21 from a variety of professions, including Matt Clark, an attorney at Chain Cohn Clark, Diana Valenzuela, an engineer, Victor Oropeza, a business owner, and barber, Dr. Isaac Sanchez, a family practice physician in Wasco, Travis Bibee, a Wind Wolves Preserve Ranger. The group also included firefighters from Fire Station 33, U.S. Army personnel, and representatives from California State University Bakersfield and Bakersfield College. The experts talked about their own experiences and gave the young students insightful advice on how to follow their passions. The students were able to interact with the guests, ask questions, and get a glimpse into the real world of different careers. They were able to explore various options and learned that there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to choosing a career path. “This event was amazing,” said Megan Johnson, the school counselor who organized the Career Day. “Our students were so engaged and inspired. They were able to see the many possibilities that exist beyond the classroom and I think it opened their eyes to what their future could hold.” “Kern Avenue Elementary’s Career Day is a prime example of how schools and communities can work together,” said Mayela Bujanda-Medina, principal of the school. “We get to provide students with hands-on experiences that empower and inspire them.” But that’s not all that McFarland USD has to offer. In addition to its regular curriculum, the district has several special programs that help students explore their interests and prepare for their futures. For example, McFarland High School has a globally-ranked robotics program, a specialized agriculture business program, dual enrollment opportunities in partnership with Bakersfield College, a variety of art programs, and career technical education (CTE) programs. McFarland USD is committed to providing its students with the education and resources they need to succeed. From career days to special programs, the district is helping students explore their interests, develop their skills, and achieve their goals. “The career day made me wish I was a kid again, especially learning about all the opportunities McFarland USD has to offer!” said Diana Valenzuela, engineer. “Really makes me want to go back to school.” For more information about Kern Avenue Elementary’s Career Day, please contact Megan Johnson at mejohnson@mcfarland.k12.ca.us. Originally published here: https://askaaronresendez.com/one-elementary-schools-career-day-will-make-you-wish-you-were-a-kid-again/