I attended the School Board meeting on Wednesday, November 11, 2016. This governmental body meets every two weeks to discuss issues and make decisions about the Piedmont Unified School District, including the three elementary schools, the Middle School, and both Piedmont and Millennium High School. This meeting was focused on honoring Rick Raushenbush, who is retiring from the board, and reviewing the many science class models presented by the state of California for both the middle school and the high school. Almost all of the board members, and a community member, spoke about Mr. Raushenbush and presented him with gifts.

Alisha Lewis also delivered the school report to the board, mentioning events like the seniors’ urban plan projects, Civics students’ phone banking for campaigns, and the theater program’s performance, “The Drowsy Chaperone.” Community members, including many students, had the opportunity to speak about an issue. I spoke to the topic of AP classes, because I have noticed that many of the advanced classes are in the Science Department, and I would love to see more opportunities in the humanities/social sciences realm, specifically for classes like Psychology. The board did not comment, other than to thank me for my input.

A large chunk of the meeting was devoted to presenting NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards) course models for the middle and high school. Dr. Cheryl Wozniak and Principal Shati Shah, along with middle and high school teachers, presented these options, including benefits and challenges for each, which the state has developed. They explained how there are new standards for the science department, and they would like to incorporate more earth science and engineering into most classes. At the middle school level, there are two options, one of which more closely aligns with the current course system, and one that integrates all areas of science into each level. There are also eight different models at the high school level, three of which are accelerated. Each model has drawbacks and benefits, although many of the accelerated models seemed to have the most challenges.

Personally, I think it would make more sense to make more engineering and earth/space classes available, rather than try to incorporate those in the existing courses. I like that right now, most students have freedom to choose their science path, but if they are required to take classes that are not domain specific, they cannot focus on a particular interest and college applications become more confusing. However, the board must pick one of the options provided by the state, so whichever one has the least specific path structure and would be ideal. I do think that integrated science at the middle school level would be helpful, though.

    Another issue addressed by the board is the methods of communication, and whether community feel they can both stay informed and share their own opinions. Some members spoke to the idea of parents selecting filters, so they might only hear about their topics of interest (ex: arts, high school) and therefore do not become desensitized to the constant email communication that would otherwise occur.

   I interviewed Board Member Doug Ireland, who spoke to his motivation for being involved. He said that he loves the job and aims to maintain good schools, as that is critical to the community. Specifically about Wednesday’s meeting, he mentioned that difficulties include curriculum changes and budgeting. The process of changing curriculum involves meeting about the changes, getting updates from staff in order to make informed decisions, and reviewing different curriculum; the same method was used when they reformed the math curriculum last year. In terms of updating the schools, they are spending money to fix facilities in order to modernize learning in all aspects.

Ella Gilbert, Piedmont High School Senior

Editors Note: Opinions expressed are those of the author.

DRESS BEST FOR LESS

The Carriage House Marking Room is proposed to be eliminated for a new Aquatic Center development.

Carriage House Marking Room at Magnolia and Bonita Avenues – 799 Magnolia Ave., Piedmont, CA – 510-653-0221

Compounding challenges for DBFL, the proposed Aquatic Center includes destruction of the Carriage House, valued as a quaint landmark of Piedmont’s past. The Carriage House has long served as the DBFL sorting and marking room and a very convenient drop off center for donations.  On any day of the week Piedmonters can be seen bringing bags and boxes of toys, outgrown clothes and housewares to the Carriage House.

The elimination of the Carriage House as a marking room is not immediate. However, if a bond is approved by voters for the Aquatic Center, a new marking room will need to be purchased, rented or built in a central Piedmont location for the convenience of volunteer workers and donors, who donate or work at the Carriage House before picking up kids or after swimming next door. 

Are there any other City owned properties that could serve as well as the Carriage House for donations and recycling in the community? Perhaps the east wing of 801 Magnolia Avenue or the City garages on Magnolia Avenue?

According to Gayle Sells, Chair of DBFL Board, “We hope that the city and school community can find us another space if the pool gets the go ahead.  Our board supports the idea of a new community pool.”

Recycling locally is an important contribution to fulfilling our required reduction of greenhouse gases and reaching the objectives of Piedmont’s Climate Action Plan. 

If you have ideas or can help relocate DBFL, let DBFL know at  shopdbfl@gmail.com

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On the last Saturday of the month, there is a $10 bag sale from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Carriage House Marking Room – Bag Day is a popular adventure allowing avid thrift shoppers to stuff a standard brown grocery bag full of items for $10.

DONATIONS: 

Cleaning closets? Recycle and reuse with Dress Best for Less! DBFL is always in need of gently used and good condition clothing, books, sporting goods and other small household items that will produce revenues for the schools. (Please no computers, non-working electrical items, or soiled, stained, moldy items!). Donate items at the marking room at 709 Magnolia Avenue, across from Piedmont High School.

Shop at the Store for Great Bargains. DBFL is the best upscale resale store in the East Bay! We sell only the most current styles and labels as well as household items in a friendly, organized atmosphere.  Come to the Store located at 3861 Piedmont Avenue.

DBFL Store:
3861 Piedmont Avenue,
Oakland, CA 94611
Phone – 510-658-8525
Email: shopdbfl@gmail.com
Tuesday -Saturday – 11am to 6pm

Marking Room:
799 Magnolia Avenue,
Piedmont, CA 94611
Phone – 510-653-0221
Monday – 10:00am – noon
Tuesday – 9am – 1:30pm
Wednesday – 9am – 4pm
Saturday – 10am – noon

DBFL is an important resource for Piedmonters and Piedmont Schools. 

Read more about Dress Best for Less here. <

League of Women Voters of Piedmont

Holiday Luncheon

Senator Loni Hancock

2016 Election Round-Up

Friday, December 2, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm

Piedmont Veterans Hall

401 Highland Avenue

The LWV Piedmont is pleased to announce Senator Loni Hancock will be the keynote speaker at its annual Holiday Luncheon on December 2, 2016. The outgoing state senator will provide insight into what the 2016 election results mean for California, the Bay Area and the future. The Senator will also provide a personal perspective of her nearly 14 years in the California Legislature, first as an Assembly Member from 2002 to 2008, and as State Senator from 2008 to 2016. Throughout her legislative career, Senator Hancock has focused on education, the environment and economic equity, while representing nearly 1 million constituents.

Speaker and lunch is $25 in advance or $30 at the door. To reserve your spot, visit LWVPiedmont.org and click the Reserve Now button. Payment via credit card, debit card or PayPal account accepted. Payment by check should be made payable to LWVP and sent c/o Ward Lindenmayer, 40 Highland Ave, Piedmont, CA 94611.

There is no fee for the speaker portion of the program. Doors open at 11:15, the program begins at 11:30 with lunch following the presentation.

Editors Note:  PCA does not support or oppose candidates for public office or ballot measures. 

During the afternoon of Monday, November 14, 2016,  approximately 200 Piedmont High School, Millennium High School and Piedmont Middle School students left their campuses to join with students from Oakland Technical High School in protest of the presidential election.

The Piedmont Police and Fire Departments along with District teachers, staff and administrators monitored the protest. The safety and order of the march was maintained.  Some students left the march after reaching Oakland Tech, while others continued on to Oakland City Hall.

“I am thankful for the support of Piedmont’s city services, Oakland Unified’s administrative team, and that the walk-out was peaceful.  If you have any questions or concerns, please contact my office at rbooker@piedmont.k12.ca.us .”

Randall Booker, Superintendent Piedmont Unified School District

 October 5th Park Commission Meeting – 

During the meeting the main issues or projects which were discussed were the update on the Hampton Park Master Plan, the Linda Kingston Triangle, and the oak tree at Magee Overlook. 

    On October 5th, I attended the City of Piedmont Park Commission meeting. The Park Commission makes recommendations to the City Council about improvements to the parks. The Commission meets monthly on the first Wednesday of the month at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers, City Hall.

   The Hampton Park Master Plan was the first topic which was brought up by Nancy Kent, who is the staff Liaison to the Park Commission. She explained how the tennis courts have been refinished, and they are not sure when the field will get finished but progress is being made. The Linda Kingston island was another area of interest for the Commission. This project puts a traffic island at the crossroads of Linda and Kingston avenues. On the island will be plants to allow the island to have aesthetic appeal. There was large concern over how long the lights were taking and if the city had consulted with its light consultant. The lights being put in on the island will be custom made and will not glare into the surrounding houses, a large area of concern.

   The issue which affected me the most was the Park Commission consideration of taking out an oak tree near the Magee Overlook due to safety concerns. The head maintenance member Dave Frankel spoke on this issue. He explained how the tree was decaying and how if it was not removed soon it could fall and cause damages.

   The final topic of discussion was about possible Coaches Field renovations. In this case the Park Commission seemed to be against my personal opinion. Among the commission there wasn’t much concern about renovating the field when in reality, it is a necessity. All they talked about was the lighting on the field and if there should be artificial grass or not. I would have liked them to discuss future plans to renovate the field.

    After the meeting I interviewed John Lenahan who is a member of the Park Commission. After asking him questions, I learned that he was a part of the Commission because he thinks Piedmont parks are the best part of the community and wants to keep it that way. I learned that he thought money has always been a problem in the Park Commission and getting things approved. Lenahan explained how the Commission recommends how to improve the city parks to the City Council, where the idea either gets accepted or rejected. If the plan is accepted then money is the issue, the city must figure out how to pay for the project, funding usually comes from ¨a combination of both private and public funding¨. An example of this would be if the city was to rebuild Coaches Field, then the Piedmont Baseball Foundation, a private organization, would help fund the project along with taxpayers money. Interviewing John Lenahan helped me understand what the Park Commission does and why he is so engaged in the community.

 Adam Low, Piedmont High School Senior

Report:

I attended the Park Commission meeting of October 5, 2016.  The Commission is involved with all of the parks in Piedmont’s domain. They make sure the parks are well maintained and well funded. For example, there was a tree in Piedmont Park that was dangerously overhanging so the staff cut it down for public safety. Another big part of the Park Commission roll is oversight of all current and future park remodels such as Hampton Field and Linda Kingston Triangle. They stay updated on schedules for the park remodel finishes as well as being properly funded. The Parks Commission meets once every month to talk about these issues and keep the remodeling process on track.

A major issue that they addressed included a $25,000 feasibility plan for a Coaches Field remodel. Other aspects of this issue include lights, and how they will impact the people living around the field, and the different types of material they use for the grass. Other major issues included the remodels that have been previously stated and the Magee Oak Tree that was taken out.

In the meeting everyone was in favor for every measure they proposed. There was one woman, Nancy Kent, the staff liaison, who talked about every single project mentioned. She gave overviews of the Hampton and Linda Park projects, as well as an overview of the Magee Oak tree. Another issue at the meeting was the Coaches Field remodel, and in my opinion it is extremely necessary. The grass is always muddy, there is not a lot of space and it needs lights. I think the city of Piedmont would benefit greatly from a Coach’s Field remodel.

After the meeting, I interviewed a member of the Parks Commission whose name was John Lenahan. He said he wanted to be a part of the commission because the parks of Piedmont are one of our cities best qualities and they need to be preserved and beautified as much as possible. There is also a struggle getting enough funding to maintain the parks as well as having restrictions on water it makes it hard for the trees. In the future, he hopes to get more funding from the city council to keep the parks maintained as well as having city donors who will fund Piedmont’s beautification.

Joey Lalli, Piedmont High School Senior

Editors Note: Opinions expressed are those of the authors.

Piedmont resident John Roberts explains why he wants to be on the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) Board of Directors:

I, John Roberts, am a candidate for the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) – Ward 2.

My ‘CAT’ platform stands for Community, Accessibility, and Transparency. Community involvement makes for the best parks, and helps the essence of democracy flourish.  Accessability provides park visitors fair treatment despite socioeconomic, race, handicap, or recreational diversity.  Transparency means the public should be informed of all park decisions because we all fund its function through our tax dollars.  In essence, if my platform were implemented, the structural updates would ensure the community was being heard, park visitors were greatly served and treated equally, and our taxes were being used efficiently.  For more information, please see the tabs above covering different topics, or for a one-page summary, please see my Candidate Statement.

I am married to Amie Garcia and we have three children, Yanela (13), Andres (11), and Emilio (5).  We enjoy visiting our nearby parks, as well as camping in the Sierras.  We also love various types of recreation.  My father served in the U.S. Navy aboard a ship during WWII, my mother is Mexican, and I was born and raised on the border in Baja California, Mexico.  I am fluent in Spanish and also have a working knowledge of Brazilian Portuguese.  I have a B.A. in Economics from the University of California at San Diego, a Master of Finance degree from the Instituto Tecnologico Autonomo de Mexico, and hold the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Financial Risk Manager (FRM) designations.  I work for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as a Senior Complex Financial Institution Specialist.   I conduct continuous bank monitoring, participate in examinations, and cover risk areas such as operations, audit, and regulatory reporting.  I earn a fixed salary yet make recommendations that can adversely affect the salary prospects of bankers who make millions; I do this to protect our deposits from bankers taking undue risks. This experience will help me advocate at EBRPD for the little guy, the visitors of our parks.

Ward 2 represents most of Oakland, Piedmont, Canyon, Moraga, Orinda, Orinda Village, Rheem Valley, Lafayette, Rossmoor, and part of Walnut Creek.  Parks in this ward include: portion of Briones, Anthony Chabot (north of Keller Avene if extended east), Claremont Canyon, Huckleberry, Leona Open Space, a small portion of Las Trampas, Redwood, Roberts, Sibley, and Temescal.

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I am running because the East Bay Regional Park District has only about 24 miles of tight singletrack for mountain bikes and almost half of that is in one park, Crockett Hills Regional Park, even though the EBRPD reports to have 65 parks, and over one thousand miles of trails.  I, of course, am an avid mountain biker after I hurt my knee and can no longer hike.  I often ride with my kids, one of which rides with a middle school mountain bike team.

John Roberts, EBRPD Candidate and Piedmont Resident

Go to the link below for photos and campaign information.

www.JohnRobertsDemocracy.com.

Editors Note: PCA does not support or oppose candidates for public office. 

  On September 14, 2016, I attended the bi-weekly Board of Education meeting at the City Hall Council Chambers in hopes of both listening and discussing the progress of the Piedmont Unified School District.

The meeting started with Millennium High School’s ASB vice-president Max Miller briefing the board members about the recent and future events that had taken place in both MHS and PHS, such as the success of back to school night and “Club Day” at Piedmont High on September 23.

Before proceeding with other items on the agenda, the Board Members opened up the floor to anyone who wanted to speak out about their concerns. Many of my fellow classmates took advantage of this opportunity, like Cole Bloomfield, who encouraged the Board to consider the excessive workload given to students over the summer, despite the fact that this material is not thoroughly covered upon the return to school. While it is illegal for the government officials to speak to any issues not directly outlined in the agenda, they listened to the opinions of each student respectfully and openly, nodding heads and smiling politely.

Next, Superintendent Randall Booker briefly outlined various activities to occur in the Piedmont community, then handed over the mic to Stephanie Griffin and Dr. Cheryl Wozniak, who spoke about the results of CAASPP testing in the 2015-16 school year. Amazingly, Piedmont High School scored well above the state average, with eighty-seven percent of students meeting state standards- in fact, many of them exceeding. While the presenters were sure to tell the board members that we deserved to “toot our horn,” they also got down into the nitty-gritty.

Piedmont students scored particularly low in the listening portion of English Language Arts and the communicating reasoning section of Math. Additionally, there were still students scoring below standards. The board members wondered why this was the case, and what could be done to help these particular students. Eventually, President Andrea Swenson asked for any public comments and many of the attending students jumped at the chance to voice their opinion. Senior Sam Wen described the popular belief at our school that the CAASPP test was merely an easy graduation requirement, and that it did not bear much weight in the minds of the student body. However, he also spoke to the fact that there was recently more concern surrounding the test, when students were told by PHS administration that without high student participation in the testing, the school faced many negative consequences.

I, too, took my part in addressing this issue. At the podium, I commented my opinion that many students are so focused on personal scores from the ACT, SAT, and AP tests that they do not care much about the CAASPP, which seems to affect the school system more than it does themselves. I then contended that it is actually very important to realize that colleges not only care about these scores, but about the strength of the community we come from. If the school system could stir more conversation around this truth, then perhaps it would promote a more serious culture around the CAASPP test. On a side note, I also noted the District’s poor listening score, and the fact that I had rarely been tested on listening in any of my classes besides Spanish. If the Board of Education was concerned with raising these scores, then maybe they should consider incorporating it in more of the school’s english courses.

After the CAASPP presentation, the Board moved to the next task on the agenda- budgets. Admittedly, it was harder to concentrate on economics than it was on the state tests I had personally taken a year before, but I did pick up some important information. It seemed that many of the board members, especially Doug Ireland and Superintendent Randall Booker, were expressing concern over the lack of funding in PUSD’s facilities budget.

Booker mentioned that many upgrades were far overdue, including the replacement of a boiler from the 1960s in PHS’s 30s building, and the poor conditions of the buildings overall. The Board considered taking money out of the General Fund for these facilities, but they also felt that it was most important to propose a bond measure and re-engage the community about these urgent issues.

I personally believe that while it is necessary for Piedmont to ensure safety in its schools (ie. earthquake-proof buildings, stable roofs, etc.), cosmetic features should not taking priority in spending over teachers’ salaries or necessary school supplies that we currently lack.

Once the meeting ended and all the students gathered to collect signatures, I encountered Board Member Doug Ireland and asked to interview him about his biggest concerns and objectives for PUSD. He told me that he was most preoccupied with the budget’s shortcomings of about $800,000, and was hoping that Superintendent Randall Booker would propose a budget to solve this issue by either raising funds or, unfortunately, making cuts.

Secondly, Ireland told me that recently the Board had been facing what they perceived to be “unfair treatment” by the local newspaper. Ireland did not give me much greater detail on the topic, but it is certainly one worth investigating.

The night ended on a very cheerful note as the Board Members thanked the students for attending their meeting, and the students reciprocated the gratitude for being allowed to speak out and also learn about significant matters concerning our educations.

By Elisa Glauber, Piedmont High School Senior

Editors Note:  Opinions expressed are those of the author.