By Mary-Justine Lanyon
In her highlights presentation on Valley of Enchantment Elementary School to the school board at their Nov. 21 meeting, Principal Bethany Negersmith noted they have the largest enrollment in the district.
The current enrollment is 548 students in TK through fifth grade; the average student to teacher ratio is 2:1.
“We have a diverse student body,” Negersmith said, “which includes a significant representation of Hispanic and White students.”
The student population includes 10.8 percent English learners and 1.3 percent foster youth.
“At VOE, we unite our students, teachers, staff and families to deliver a rich and challenging academic experience within a supportive community that prepares youth for the challenges of living in an ever-changing world,” the principal said.
Negersmith told the trustees she is very proud of the increase in the students’ California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) scores. “We grew by leaps and bounds in 10 of the 14 categories from 2023 to 2024,” she said. Their Academic Performance Index (API) of 801 “ranks it above average compared to similar schools in the state.” The score is based on 1,000.
The school’s plan for student achievement includes three goals:
- Goal 1: Foster academic excellence and promote professional growth.
- Goal 2: Create a safe and positive school environment through culture, climate and facilities.
- Goal 3: Cultivate family and community relationships.
To meet Goal 1, they combine Title 1 funding with English Learner services and innovative programs like dog reading and Saturday school.
The students are loving Saturday school, Negersmith said, adding that one little girl told her that “it’s the coolest day ever, better than normal school.”
VOE implements Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to foster a safe and positive school environment. “By embedding positive behavioral expectations into every aspect of the school,” Negersmith said, “VOE reinforces a community of respect and safety conducive to academic and social success.
“We promote kindness throughout the school,” she added.
As for Goal 3, Negersmith notes that “we are really strong on this. We stay connected with our families.” And the school also has a strong connection with the community through the HAFDRA dental screening and sealant program, the community garden, the EarlyAct clubs sponsored by the Crestline-Lake Gregory Rotary Club and the health and wellness fair. In addition, Negersmith said, the Lions Club helps buy feed for the school’s chickens.
“I really appreciate the mental health aspects,” Trustee Cindy Gardner commented at the conclusion of Negersmith’s presentation, “and the sense of belonging at your school.” She added VOE is creating “layers that contribute to student success.
“Success at the elementary school level opens up opportunities at the high school level,” Gardner said. She also pointed to the “significant jump” in the students’ math scores. “Kudos to everyone at your school site.”
Trustee Jordana Ridland noted that “801 is a phenomenal score.” She pointed to the love and commitment that is apparent at VOE. “Everyone goes the extra mile at VOE. The students know they are loved. You have a lot to be proud of.”
The students at VOE are thriving academically and socially.
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