Scenes from Schools

• Torrey Pines Elementary School has developed a unique video aimed at helping the parents of Spanish-speaking students, many of whom are bused in from elsewhere in the district, become more familiar with the homework process, and be more comfortable with asking questions of school staff. The "Project Success at Torrey Pines" video, conceived by principal Jim Solo along with teacher Olivia Alford, features Spanish-language narration, scenes from the school featuring some second-language families, and specific strategies on improving communications with schools to help close the achievement gap. Six parents and their children helped re-enact situations for the project. Olivia reports that after an initial "screening," parents were very excited and began practicing the new strategies right away.

• Monroe Clark Middle School will be hosting this year's annual Tariq Khamisa Day, "A Celebration of Peace & Life," on Thursday, March 6th. The Tariq Khamisa Foundation (TKF) is committed to stopping the cycle of youth violence by inspiring children to make nonviolent choices when confronted with a conflict or problem.. Every year, TKF honors Tariq Khamisa by hosting a special celebration on his birthday with local students. The day's events will include in-class discussions, youth-oriented entertainment; craft opportunities; and a group dialogue between students, teachers, staff and the community on violence in our schools and communities. For more information on the Tariq Khamisa Foundation, please visit www.tkf.org