Schools

Q&A: San Miguel Elementary School Fast Facts

Learn what's new on campus from the school's principal, Heidi Bergener.

A new arbor at will greet the more than 600 children expected to be enrolled in preschool through sixth grade when classes start in the fall.

The campus offers Extended Day Programs before and after school, and fosters an educational environment where students learn to "Be Safe, Be Respectful, Be Responsible ... Be A Peace Builder!" It is the only school in the district that has a uniform policy.

This year, students will focus on academic growth in core subjects. Here's a look at the year ahead from the school's principal, Heidi Bergener.

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Lemon Grove Patch: Does your school have any changes in leadership? 

Principal Heidi Bergener: No.

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Lemon Grove Patch: Does your school have any new teachers?  

Bergener: No

Lemon Grove Patch: What special events or programs do you plan at your school for 2012-2013?

Bergener: We are really focusing on maintaining our wonderful growth of last years’ instructional practices and student learning. Specifically, our focus will be on academic growth for students in the areas of reading, writing and math; as well as increasing academic achievement of our English language learners while simultaneously accelerating their English language development.

We will also continue our implementation of the uniform policy, the Rosetta Stone afterschool language classes (English and Spanish), and the intensive intervention afterschool for two hours, Monday through Friday starting Oct. 1.

For teachers, we will continue to implement the Direct Interactive Instruction Strategies in writing.

Lemon Grove Patch: How many students do you expect at your school?

Bergener: With preschool, 640.

Lemon Grove Patch: Does your school have any physical changes, such as new/remodeled buildings or major equipment?

Bergener: We put in a new arbor at the front of the school at the end of last year. It is intended to be a safe place where students can read during the school day and parents can wait for their children before school gets out.

Lemon Grove Patch: What's changed at your school this year that parents and students should know about?

Bergener: Uniform requirements are solid-color leggings, and sweatshirts must be of solid color (grey, white or navy preferable) with no graphic designs. (See the flyer in the media box.)

Lemon Grove Patch: Who are your PTA leaders, and what special projects do they have planned?  How can parents get involved?

Bergener: Our PTA leadership is Roxie Carter, president; Amy Blood, vice president; Karla Santuarie, ways and means; Patty Dalton, treasurer; and Rita Poumele, health and safety. Teacher reps are Kim Sowvlen and Kelly Campbell.

Each parent is requested to volunteer five hours a year. The campaign is called, “Got 5?”

Parents check in at the office using our Ident-a-parent safety system. Teachers have sign-up lists in their rooms, and the office has sign-ups where parents, community members and other volunteers can check in and read with children.

We have biweekly newsletters sent out in English and Spanish that highlight activities and volunteer opportunities!

Our community garden always needs attention and volunteers.

School supplies and new uniforms for children are in high demand. Any donated uniforms or school supplies are greatly appreciated!

Lemon Grove Patch: Does your school district have any special new programs or events people should know about?

Kindergarten orientation is 8:30 a.m. Aug. 31.

Classes will be posted at 4 p.m. Aug. 31

First day of school is Sept. 4.

Back-to-School Night is from 6 to 7 p.m. Sept. 20.

Parent-teacher conference week is Oct. 29-Nov. 2 (12:53 p.m. dismissal time).


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