#SAVEDEVARGAS

We, the undersigned, support "Keep De Vargas Elementary Open!"

It is a CUSD Asset for the following reasons:

De Vargas is a STEM school that empowers self-motivated students to collaborate, think critically, solve problems and contribute to the global society.

De Vargas is the only school in CUSD with teachers that are formally trained in delivering Project Based Learning (PBL) experiences.

De Vargas is the first in CUSD to offer CREATE (construction, resource, engineering, and technology environment) Makerspace. CREATE offers more room and access to tools and materials not kept in classrooms and supports student’s PBL curriculum.

De Vargas is 1 of 2 schools in CUSD that serves the most Title 1 students. Note: Title 1 schools receive federal funding to help underprivileged children meet challenging state academic standards and help those who are behind or at risk of falling behind, aiming to bridge the gap between low-income students and other students.

De Vargas is 1 of 2 schools in CUSD with a full time Intervention Specialist that plans and implements supports for all students in the school for Reading and Math.

De Vargas is 1 of 2 schools in CUSD with a full time Instructional Coach to support students and teachers in every aspect of their learning and instruction.

5th Grade Science: De Vargas had strong results, particularly for English Language Learners. (46.15% met or exceeded standard. Across the District, only 24.38% of 5th grade ELs met or exceeded standard.) for students.

De Vargas was the 3rd highest ranked school in CUSD in preparing Kinders for 1st grade in the area of Reading. (According to district data collected last year). We have met Healthy Enrollement (three Kinder classes) for years.

De Vargas has a committed and involved community made up of parent volunteers. The Home & School Club (HSC) has successfully organized activities to connect parents and to raise funds to pay for expanded music and art programs, Makerspace activities, P.E. equipment, Library and Project Cornerstone programs.

The diversity of our student population, both socioeconomically and culturally, provides a learning environment for our students that is representative of the real world outside our classrooms and school. We have many spoken languages and related cultures such as Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, Hindi, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Spanish, French, Swedish and Russian represented at De Vargas. We celebrate inclusion!

The De Vargas environment develops students into becoming understanding, emphatic citizens, that are not afraid to learn from their mistakes and show kindness, support and thoughtfulness to others that our world needs more now than ever!

As members of the De Vargas Elementary community and neighborhood, we implore the CUSD Board to keep our school open.

WE TAKE A STAND AGAINST CLOSING DE VARGAS ELEMENTARY!