El Sausal Middle School receives national recognition

El Sausal Middle School has been selected as national demonstration site for Advancement Via Individual Determination, a program that helps students get on the path to college.

 El Sausal was selected through an application screening and review process that included a site visit by a team from AVID headquarters in San Diego. AVID serves more than 450,000 in 4,800 schools nationwide, and about 125 other schools were chosen this year as demonstration sites.

The AVID program is very popular among educators for its ability to motivate students to go into college. AVID relies on peer support to inspire students and help one another. Many schools in Monterey County have AVID classes, and El Sausal has consistently been recognized for the success it has with students. 

El Sausal battles illiteracy on Read Across America day

There was much happening in Monterey County schools on Read Across America day, but I only made it to two schools.

In the morning, I witnessed the ceremonial painting of teachers and students warriors at El Sausal Middle School in Salinas: English teacher David Wirth organized a group of his peers to pound the drums as they marched across campus early in the morning. The painted ones -- including yours truly -- pledged to battle illiteracy and read a lot. A lot!

For seventh grader Carlos Rodriguez, it was a good way to start the school day.

"I like that lots of us got together," he said.



Later on, I read at Ord Terrace in Seaside. That was lots of fun too.